This code indicates that the airbag control module has detected an electrical fault—such as an open, short, or abnormal resistance—in the Stage 1 deployment circuit for the third-row right frontal airbag. Because the circuit is outside the expected parameters, the module disables that deployment path and stores the fault to warn the driver. The condition must be diagnosed to ensure proper supplemental restraint system operation.
The inflator's internal squib can develop an open circuit, short, or resistance shift from age or manufacturing variation, causing the ACM to flag the deployment loop as faulty.
The low-voltage deployment circuit can suffer from wire chafing, pinching, or internal breaks between the ACM and the inflator, creating an open or short condition.
Moisture, vibration, or thermal cycling can degrade the connector pins at the inflator pigtail or junction block, introducing high resistance or intermittent contact.
A replacement inflator with the wrong resistance specification or an improper connection can alter the deployment-loop signature enough to set this code.
Rarely, the ACM's deployment-driver circuitry can falsely report a fault when the external loop is proven good; this should be the last possibility investigated.
The vehicle can be driven, but the third-row right frontal Stage 1 airbag may not deploy in an accident, so the fault should be repaired as soon as possible.
No. The light will return because the underlying circuit fault remains; clearing the code without repair only temporarily extinguishes the warning.
Generally no. Most B0049 faults are caused by the inflator or its wiring. The ACM is rarely the culprit and should only be replaced after the deployment loop and connectors have been fully tested.
No. This code reflects a circuit integrity failure that inhibits Stage 1 deployment rather than causing unintended deployment.