B178211

This DTC indicates the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) ECU detected a short to ground in the right second-row seat belt pretensioner ignition circuit — Seal 6 EV

Safety System

This DTC indicates the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) ECU detected a short to ground in the right second-row seat belt pretensioner ignition circuit.

As a pyrotechnic safety device, the pretensioner typically has a resistance of 1.5-3.0Ω.

The ECU determines component status by monitoring circuit current and resistance.

The ECU registers a short to ground if circuit resistance falls below the threshold (typically <0.8Ω) or insulation resistance to ground drops abnormally.

This fault immediately forces the SRS into fail-safe mode, disables deployment of the affected seat pretensioner and potentially associated airbags, and illuminates the instrument panel airbag warning light.

Because the pretensioner uses a squib as the actuating element, a short to ground can cause unintended ignition energy leakage or system misjudgment, creating a potential safety hazard.

4
Cases Logged
BYD DTC AI Analysis

BYD E3 right middle-row pretensioner short circuit after water ingress

A 2020 BYD E3 developed a continuous airbag warning light after driving through deep water in heavy rain. DTC B178211 was logged. Inspection revealed obvious water stains on the right side of the carpet. After removing the right rear seat, we found water inside the pretensioner connector (located at the crossmember beneath the seat) and green corrosion on the terminals. We cleaned the connector and dried it with compressed air; the pretensioner itself tested normal, but the harness side showed only 0.3Ω resistance to ground. Further inspection revealed the connector seal had deteriorated and was missing, allowing water ingress during wading. We replaced the harness connector and resealed it, which resolved the fault.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Qin EV Seat Adjustment Causes Wiring Harness Wear Case

2019 Qin EV owner reported the airbag warning light coming on intermittently at specific seat positions. Read DTC B178211 (intermittent fault). Inspection found the right second-row seat manually adjustable. At fully forward and rearward positions, the seat rails pinch the pretensioner harness (running from the B-pillar to the seat). Long-term friction wore through the insulation, exposing the copper core to the seat frame and creating a short to ground. Re-routed the wiring and secured it with dedicated harness retention clips, ensuring the loom stays clear throughout the full seat travel range. Fault fully resolved.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

E2: Pretensioner wiring not secured after accident repair

A 2019 E2 had the SRS warning light stay on after right rear-side collision repairs. DTC B178211. Inspection found technicians had replaced the right second-row seatbelt assembly during the accident repair but failed to properly clip the pretensioner wiring harness into the B-pillar harness bracket. The harness loosened and chafed against the body metal edge, damaging the insulation and causing a short to ground. Repaired the damaged harness, resecured the harness clip to the specified torque and position, cleared the fault code, and the system returned to normal.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Rare internal short circuit in pretensioner body

A 2020 E3's airbag warning light suddenly illuminated during normal use. The vehicle had no accident or water ingress history. The diagnostic tool showed active DTC B178211. Disconnecting the pretensioner connector revealed 0.2Ω between terminals (well below normal) and continuity to ground on both terminals. This indicated an internal pretensioner igniter short. Replaced the right middle row seatbelt pretensioner assembly (requires replacing the complete seatbelt retractor assembly). Fault cleared. Likely caused by a batch defect in the internal pretensioner components.
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.