B164A1B

This fault code indicates the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) detected an open circuit or high resistance condition in the front passenger seat belt pretensioner circuit (resistance value outside the calibrated range of 2-5Ω) — Atto 8

Safety System

This fault code indicates the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) detected an open circuit or high resistance condition in the front passenger seat belt pretensioner circuit (resistance value outside the calibrated range of 2-5Ω).

As a key actuator in the passive safety system, the seat belt pretensioner contains a pyrotechnic device.

During a frontal collision, electronic detonation generates a reaction force to rapidly tighten the seat belt and remove slack between the occupant and the belt.

Fault code B164A1B indicates the SRS control unit (ACU) cannot establish an effective electrical connection with the front passenger pretensioner.

This condition prevents the pretensioner from deploying during a collision, continuously illuminates the instrument cluster airbag warning light, and forces the system into a degraded protection mode.

Some models may also limit power output or disable other associated safety functions.

3
Cases Logged
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Worn seat rails on the BYD E2 caused an open circuit in the pretensioner wiring.

A 2019 BYD E2 with 32,000 km had an intermittent airbag warning light on the dashboard. VDS pulled DTC B164A1B (current). Inspection found the seat track pinched the harness under the front passenger seat when moved fully forward, wearing through the insulation and breaking the copper wires. Removing the seat showed the pretensioner connector was intact, but the harness had completely severed at the frame bend. Repair: cut out the damaged section, resoldered the wires, sealed the splices with waterproof heat-shrink tubing, added a thicker protective sleeve, and rerouted the harness to clear the seat track travel. Fault cleared; no recurrence at 3-month follow-up.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Qin EV: Loose pretensioner connector causes intermittent open circuit

A 2020 Qin EV owner reported the seatbelt warning light flashing intermittently. DTC B164A1B was stored as a history code. Inspection found the yellow double-lock 2-pin connector beneath the front passenger seat not fully seated — a gentle pull could detach it. A detailing shop probably disturbed it while cleaning the interior. The shorting bar inside the connector showed arc erosion from prolonged poor contact. Fix: Cleaned the connector terminals with electronic contact cleaner, applied conductive grease, re-locked the connector, and secured it with a cable tie. Performed an SRS system self-test, cleared the fault code, and the resistance reading stabilised at 3.2 Ω.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

E3 front passenger pretensioner internal open circuit replacement case

A 2020 BYD E3 had the airbag warning light on after accident repairs (front bumper replaced). Scan tool showed DTC B164A1B. Checked the pre-tensioner connector — no abnormality. Measured harness continuity from the connector to the SRS control unit — normal. Direct resistance measurement across the pre-tensioner body showed open circuit. Disassembled the front passenger seat belt retractor and found the pre-tensioner igniter had deployed during the impact but was not recorded (latent fault), or the replacement used part was already faulty. Resolution: Replaced with a new front passenger seat belt assembly (including pre-tensioner). Performed ‘Occupant Classification System (OCS) Calibration’ and ‘SRS Configuration Write’ under ‘Configuration and Calibration’ using VDS. Fault resolved.
Data confidence: Community This information is for reference only. Always consult a qualified technician for diagnosis and repair. Do not attempt high-voltage system repairs yourself.