B0038
Serious Severity (Level 4)Second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control
B0038 usually means second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control.
Can you still drive with B0038?
⚠️Limited driving — get to a repair shop within 1–2 days. Avoid long trips and highway speeds.
Typical repair cost: $100 – $2000
Severity Level 4 — Serious
This code indicates a serious issue that can cause noticeable driveability problems and potential engine damage if not addressed. The vehicle should be taken to a mechanic as soon as possible. Extended driving is not recommended.
Common Symptoms
- Seat belt pretensioner may not deploy in a collision
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Airbag/SRS warning light on — airbags may be disabled
- Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) stored in module memory
Possible Causes
- Faulty airbag module — most common cause, test before replacing
- Damaged or corroded wiring/connector in the airbag/SRS (supplemental restraint) system circuit
- Blown fuse or faulty relay for the airbag/SRS (supplemental restraint) system
- Poor ground connection — check and clean all related ground points
- Control module fault — rare but possible, only consider after ruling out simpler causes
Common Fixes
- Scan vehicle with a professional-grade OBD2 scanner to read all stored codes and freeze frame data — note the conditions when the code set ($36-140 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan)
- Visually inspect the airbag/SRS (supplemental restraint) system wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $135 diagnostic fee at shop)
- WARNING: Airbag/SRS system work should be performed by a qualified professional. Disconnect battery for 15+ minutes before any SRS work. Replace faulty component and clear SRS codes with professional tool ($371-1450 at qualified shop)
- Replace airbag module if testing confirms it has failed — use OEM quality, avoid the cheapest no-name aftermarket parts that fail in a year ($100-2000)
- Check and replace any blown fuses in the airbag/SRS (supplemental restraint) system fuse circuit — if fuse blows again, there's still a short that needs to be found ($4-20 for fuses)
Estimated Repair Cost
These are estimated costs based on generic repair data. Actual costs may vary depending on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does B0038 mean?
B0038 stands for "Second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control". B0038 usually means second Row Right Side Airbag Deployment Control.
Can you drive with B0038?
Limited driving — get to a repair shop within 1–2 days. Avoid long trips and highway speeds.
How much does it cost to fix B0038?
Repair costs for B0038 typically range from $100 to $2000, depending on your vehicle make, model, and local labor rates. Common fixes include: Scan vehicle with a professional-grade OBD2 scanner to read all stored codes and freeze frame data — note the conditions when the code set ($36-140 at shop, free at auto parts store for basic scan); Visually inspect the airbag/SRS (supplemental restraint) system wiring harness and connectors — look for chafed wires, melted insulation, green corrosion, loose pins, or rodent damage (often free to check yourself, $135 diagnostic fee at shop); WARNING: Airbag/SRS system work should be performed by a qualified professional. Disconnect battery for 15+ minutes before any SRS work. Replace faulty component and clear SRS codes with professional tool ($371-1450 at qualified shop).
Will B0038 clear itself?
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