B161C1B

DTC B161C1B indicates the Passenger Front Airbag ignition circuit resistance exceeds the threshold set by the SRS control module (normal range is typically 2 — Seal 6 EV

Safety System

DTC B161C1B indicates the Passenger Front Airbag ignition circuit resistance exceeds the threshold set by the SRS control module (normal range is typically 2.0-3.0Ω; the module triggers the code upon detecting resistance >3.5Ω or an open circuit).

This active SRS system fault means the passenger front airbag may fail to deploy during a collision, or abnormal signals may force the system into fail-safe mode.

In the BYD diagnostic protocol, the '1B' suffix specifically denotes 'resistance too high/open circuit'.

Poor wiring connections, oxidized connectors, poor clock spring contact, or increased internal airbag module resistance typically cause this condition.

This fault illuminates the instrument panel SRS warning lamp and disables the passenger front airbag.

As a safety-critical fault, it requires immediate repair.

5
Cases Logged
BYD DTC AI AnalysisFrom Chinese market (translated)

Oxidation of the passenger airbag connector caused high resistance on the Qin Pro DM

A 2019 BYD Qin Pro DM displayed 'Please Check SRS System' on the dash. DTC B161C1B stored. Removed the glovebox to access the passenger airbag connector behind it. Pins were oxidised and blackened by A/C condensate leakage. Contact resistance measured 5.2 Ω. Cleaned the pins with WD-40 Precision Electrical Cleaner, applied conductive grease, and resistance restored to 2.3 Ω. Cleared the DTC – fault resolved. Check the A/C drain hose for blockages to prevent recurrence.
BYD DTC AI AnalysisFrom Chinese market (translated)

Aftermarket dashcam power tapping caused airbag circuit fault

2018 BYD Qin Pro petrol. Owner installed a dashcam, tapping power from the passenger airbag wiring harness, causing DTC B161C1B. Inspection found aftermarket wiring spliced into the airbag circuit, adding series resistance (about 1.5Ω), bringing total resistance to 4.8Ω. Removed the unauthorised modification, restored factory wiring insulation, cleared fault codes with a diagnostic tool, and ran a system self-test. SRS warning light went out. Fault resolved. Reminded owner never to tap power from the airbag system.
BYD DTC AI AnalysisFrom Chinese market (translated)

Internal wear in the clock spring caused an intermittent fault.

A 2018 Qin Pro DM with 80,000 km developed an intermittent SRS warning light and DTC B161C1B that appeared sporadically. Inspection showed the passenger airbag circuit runs through the clock spring (spiral cable). Disassembly revealed worn carbon brushes inside the clock spring, causing contact resistance to spike at specific steering wheel angles. Replaced the clock spring assembly (part number: BC-5820340). Measured circuit resistance stabilised at 2.1 Ω. Multi-angle steering wheel test: no abnormalities. Fault completely resolved.
BYD DTC AI AnalysisFrom Chinese market (translated)

Replaced airbag module due to internal resistor aging

2019 Qin Pro (petrol). B161C1B fault occurred repeatedly. Wiring measured normal at 2.2 Ω, but the fault returned when driving over bumps. Monitored with an oscilloscope and found instantaneous resistance spikes. Found internal igniter resistance degradation or dry solder joints in the front passenger airbag module. Replaced the front passenger airbag module (fitted new fixing bolts, torqued to 9–11 N·m). Coded the new module using VDS. Fault resolved.
BYD DTC AI AnalysisFrom Chinese market (translated)

Wiring harness under seat chafed, causing intermittent connection.

2019 Qin Pro DM with seat position sensor: Frequent front-to-back seat adjustment chafed the floor harness against the guide rail, partially breaking internal copper strands and creating a high-resistance connection that triggered B161C1B. Inspected the wiring under the seat; found damaged insulation and oxidised copper. Cut out the damaged section, soldered in a matching-gauge wire, applied double-layer heat shrink tubing, and rerouted the harness away from moving parts. Resistance stabilised at 2.0 Ω after repair. 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.