B169C00

DTC B169C00 indicates the airbag control unit (SRS ECU) detected a severe fault during its internal self-check — Atto 3

Safety System

DTC B169C00 indicates the airbag control unit (SRS ECU) detected a severe fault during its internal self-check.

This typically involves an ECU internal memory (EEPROM/Flash) data checksum failure, a main processor (MCU) calculation error, or an internal power supply/clock circuit fault.

This is a hard fault; the ECU cannot guarantee correct deployment of the airbags, seat belt pretensioners, and high-voltage interlock cut-off function during a collision.

Upon triggering, the SRS ECU enters fail-safe mode, illuminates the instrument cluster airbag warning light, and disables the entire airbag system.

Although the vehicle remains drivable, crash protection functions fail completely, posing a major safety risk.

4
Cases Logged
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Following accident repairs, Qin EV SRS light stays on. DTC B169C00: internal fault.

Following accident repairs on a 2019 Qin EV, the airbag warning light on the dash stayed on. VDS read DTC B169C00 (SRS ECU fault) and multiple historical crash codes. Inspection found the SRS ECU had no external damage, but the internal accelerometer had developed zero drift from the impact, so the ECU self-check flagged an internal fault. A software reflash did not clear the fault. Replaced the SRS ECU, reconfigured it, then performed output testing and static calibration. Fault resolved.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

E2 EV SRS system failed after flooding

A 2020 E2’s airbag warning light came on after wading through floodwater. Diagnostics revealed active fault code B169C00. Removing and inspecting the SRS ECU (located beneath the centre console) showed mud traces on the connector and corrosion on the internal circuit board. Cleaning the connector and drying the ECU temporarily cleared the fault, but it returned after two days of driving. Replacing the SRS ECU and applying anti-corrosion treatment to the wiring harness permanently fixed the problem. For flood-damaged vehicles, replace the SRS ECU rather than just cleaning it.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

E3: Software bug causes intermittent airbag warning light while driving.

The airbag warning light on a 2020 E3 came on intermittently while driving and went off after a restart. VDS scan showed stored fault code B169C00. Power, ground and CAN lines checked – no issues. ECU connector tight. A BYD TSB confirmed an early-version software defect that caused the ECU's internal watchdog to reset under certain electromagnetic conditions. Updated SRS ECU software to the latest version (V3.2.1 or higher). No recurrence during one month of monitoring.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Qin EV triggered B169C00 after aftermarket stereo installation

A 2019 Qin EV showed an SRS warning light the day after having aftermarket audio fitted at a non-authorised workshop. Diagnostics revealed DTCs B169C00 and U0151 (lost communication with SRS). Inspection found the workshop had broken the SRS ECU earth wire (G206) while prying off the centre console, causing an unstable ground for the ECU. Retightened the earth point, cleared the fault codes, and the system returned to normal. Tip: modifications involving SRS wiring easily cause such faults.
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.