B0005
Collapsible Steering Column Deployment Control.
- Generic
- Body
- Generic code
- High severity
How this code is built
- B
- SystemBody
- 0
- Defined bySAE, the same on every car
- 0
- AreaBody area 0
- 05
- FaultThe specific fault in that area
What it means
B0005 is the SAE J2012 generic code for the Collapsible Steering Column Deployment Control circuit. The airbag (SRS) control unit has found a fault in the circuit or device that controls collapse or deployment of the steering column during a crash. It sets the code when its self-test sees an abnormal resistance, an open or short circuit, or a device that is missing or out of range. Which component is monitored, and how, depends on the model, because not every vehicle has an active collapsible column device.
Symptoms
- Airbag or SRS warning light on and staying on
- Airbag light may flash or stay on after a previous repair or crash
- Other SRS codes stored alongside it, such as driver airbag or clockspring circuit faults
- Fault may come and go with steering movement or bumps
- Failed SRS check at an MOT or service
Possible causes
- Damaged, corroded or loose connector at the steering column or under-dash SRS wiringlikely
- Faulty clockspring (spiral cable) or wiring damage in the steering columnlikely
- Faulty collapsible column deployment device or its actuator, where fittedpossible
- Wiring harness chafed, pinched or shorted after previous repairs or trim workpossible
- Low battery voltage or a poor earth causing a false SRS self-test faultpossible
- Faulty SRS control unit or one damaged in a previous collision or water ingressrare
- Incorrectly fitted or non-matching steering column parts after a repairrare
How to diagnose
- Read all stored and history codes and any freeze frame data, and note other SRS codes that point to the same circuit or a shared connector.
- Check battery condition and charging voltage, as low voltage can cause false SRS faults.
- Check service history for recent steering column, airbag, seat or dash work, and for any collision or water damage.
- With the battery disconnected and the manufacturer's waiting time observed, visually inspect the SRS connectors under the column and dash for damage, corrosion, bent pins and a fully seated lock.
- Inspect the visible wiring along the column and under the dash for chafing, pinching or previous repairs.
- Check whether this model actually has a collapsible column device and find the correct wiring diagram and test procedure for it.
- Test the circuit and device only using the manufacturer's procedure and approved equipment. Never probe airbag circuits with an ordinary multimeter or apply test power.
- After repair, clear the codes and confirm that the SRS self-test completes and the warning light stays off.
How to fix
- Repair or replace damaged wiring, terminals or connectors in the affected SRS circuit, using the correct method for airbag wiring.
- Replace the clockspring if it is faulty or damaged.
- Replace the faulty collapsible column deployment device or steering column assembly, following the manufacturer's procedure.
- Correct any incorrectly seated or mismatched connectors and fittings left from previous work.
- Replace or have the SRS control unit checked or reset if it is faulty or crash-locked, as specified for the model.
- Restore battery condition or the earth connection if low voltage or a poor earth is the cause.
Can I keep driving?
The car may drive normally, but the airbag system may not work correctly in a crash, which is a safety risk. Limit driving and have it inspected as soon as possible. Only qualified people should work on airbag circuits.
Guide written by AI from the code's definition. Confirm with a diagnosis before replacing parts.