B16AE00

Internal fault in the SRS_ECU (airbag control unit) or systemic power supply/communication fault — Atto 3

Safety System

Internal fault in the SRS_ECU (airbag control unit) or systemic power supply/communication fault.

This DTC indicates the airbag control module detects a functional fault in its processor, memory, power management circuit, or internal communication bus, preventing the system from guaranteeing accurate crash detection and reliable airbag deployment.

Upon triggering, the SRS system enters fail-safe mode, disables all airbag and seat belt pretensioner functions, and continuously illuminates the instrument panel airbag warning light.

The system may fail to provide occupant protection during a collision, and other safety systems may experience limited functionality.

5
Cases Logged
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Poor ground connection caused an intermittent fault in the Qin Pro DM.

While driving, the airbag warning light illuminated intermittently. The scan tool showed B16AE00 as an intermittent fault. Inspection found the SRS ECU ground wire G302 at the dashboard crossmember had insufficient mounting bolt torque (only 3 N·m), causing excessive contact resistance (measured 2.8 Ω, standard <0.5 Ω). Retightened the bolt to the standard torque of 10 N·m, applied conductive paste, cleared the fault code, and monitored the vehicle for two weeks without recurrence.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

E2: Abnormal sensor impedance after accident repair

After front-end collision repairs, the airbag warning light stayed on. Reading codes retrieved current fault B16AE00. Inspection found the workshop had fitted an aftermarket front impact sensor; its internal resistance (2.1kΩ) fell outside the OEM specification (1.8-2.0kΩ), triggering the ECU’s diagnostic alarm. Replaced the sensor with a genuine unit (PN BYD-3636010) and performed the ‘Impact Sensor Calibration’ routine using VDS, which cleared the fault.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

E3 ECU internal corrosion after wading through water

After the vehicle drove through water, the airbag warning light illuminated. Diagnosis retrieved DTC B16AE00 which could not be cleared. Disassembly and inspection revealed the SRS ECU mounted beneath the floor; the housing seal had deteriorated, allowing water ingress, and the internal PCB had green corrosion. Replaced the SRS ECU with a new unit, waterproofed the wiring harness connector (replaced the waterproof plug and applied silicone grease), and raised the ECU mounting position to prevent further water ingress. Fault completely resolved.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Qin EV software bug caused communication timeout

No accident history. The airbag warning light illuminated suddenly during normal driving, accompanied by DTCs B16AE00 and U0151 (loss of communication with SRS). Inspected the power supply, CAN bus and earth circuits – all readings normal. Diagnosed as a bug in the early software version. Performed an online upgrade using VDS3000, updating the SRS software from V1.02 to V2.15. Refreshed the calibration data and cleared the faults. No recurrence after one month of monitoring.
BYD DTC AI Analysis

Assembly defect in new E2 caused connector pin to back out.

Found the airbag warning light permanently illuminated during new vehicle PDI. Retrieved current fault code B16AE00. Inspection revealed the SRS ECU wiring harness connector (32-pin) was not fully locked, with pin 15 (IGN power) backed out, causing loss of power to the ECU. Reseated the connector and confirmed the locking tab was fully engaged. Measured normal continuity across all terminals. Cleared the fault codes and the system returned to normal.
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.