B178112

This fault code indicates the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) ECU detected an abnormally low-resistance connection between the right second-row seat belt pretensioner igniter circuit and the vehicle power supply (12V constant power or ignition switch power) — Seal U

Safety System

This fault code indicates the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) ECU detected an abnormally low-resistance connection between the right second-row seat belt pretensioner igniter circuit and the vehicle power supply (12V constant power or ignition switch power).

Under normal conditions, the pretensioner igniter circuit maintains a high-resistance state, consisting only of the 2-3Ω igniter resistance and the wiring harness resistance, and must not have continuity with the power supply line.

A short to power causes the ECU to detect an abnormally high voltage (near battery voltage), triggering the fault code and illuminating the airbag warning lamp.

This fault presents a serious safety risk.

The pretensioner may deploy unintentionally while driving, suddenly tightening the seat belt and injuring the occupant.

Additionally, during an actual collision, circuit protection mechanisms or energy loss through the short circuit may prevent the pretensioner from deploying, failing to protect the occupant.

3
Cases Logged
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Worn right B-pillar wiring harness caused intermittent short circuit

Vehicle: Qin EV 2019. Customer reported the airbag warning light occasionally comes on, particularly after adjusting the middle row seatback angle. VDS scan showed DTC B178112 (active fault). Removed the right middle row B-pillar trim and found the seatbelt pretensioner harness insulation worn through at the retainer clip below the B-pillar, exposing copper and contacting the constant 12V power wire for the rear door speakers. Seat adjustment pulled the harness, causing intermittent shorts. Repaired the damaged section with heat-shrink tubing, re-routed the wiring to clear moving parts, and relocated the mounting point to increase slack. Fault resolved. No recurrence at 1-month follow-up.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Connector corrosion after water wading caused the fault

Vehicle: BYD E2 2019. Water entered the cabin through a blocked sunroof drain tube and flooded the floor. After the workshop drained the water and dried the interior, the owner found the airbag warning light stayed on. The scan tool showed DTC B178112 and multiple seat occupancy sensor faults. Inspection revealed obvious water stains and green copper corrosion inside the right middle-row seatbelt pretensioner connector (located at the lowest point under the seat). An electrolyte conductive path had formed between the igniter terminal and the adjacent power terminal (which supplies the seat heater, optional on this vehicle). Repair: Replaced the pretensioner wiring harness connector (including the waterproof seal), cleaned the ECU-side connector, and treated the pins with dedicated contact cleaner. The pretensioner itself was undamaged, so we did not replace the retractor assembly.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Internal short circuit in the pretensioner body caused abnormal resistance.

Vehicle: BYD E3 2020. Accident-repaired vehicle (right rear side collision). Replaced the right second-row seat belt assembly (includes pretensioner). After installation, DTC B178112 appeared and would not clear. Checked new component wiring connections – normal. Measured pretensioner resistance at only 0.5Ω (normal: 2.0–3.0Ω), with 12V to body ground. New part had an internal quality defect: igniter bridge wire shorted to housing. Replaced the pretensioner assembly with a genuine OEM unit (part number must match vehicle configuration; distinguish between versions with and without force limiters). Fault cleared. Use BYD genuine parts when replacing SRS components on accident vehicles. Aftermarket parts risk resistance mismatch or short circuits.
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.