B0164: Air Bag In-Vehicle Temperature Sensor Circuit
A fault is detected in the in-vehicle temperature sensor circuit used by the SRS module for deployment compensation.
What B0164 means
B0164 is a generic OBD-II body code in the airbags & restraints group. In plain English: the computer found an electrical fault in that circuit: an open, short or bad connection, or a failed component.
- Check engine light
- Usually off
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Symptoms
- Warning light or symbol related to the affected system
- Comfort or safety function impaired
Common causes
- 01Temperature sensor failureMost likely
- 02Wiring short or openPossible
Can I drive with B0164?
The car drives, but it is a safety risk.
With an airbag or restraint fault stored, one or more airbags or pretensioners may not deploy in a crash. Get it diagnosed soon and do not ignore a lit airbag light.
Why we rate it urgent
- An airbag or seat-belt pretensioner may not work in a crash
- Does not normally turn on the check engine light
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose B0164
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just B0164. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Fix other faults first
If other codes are stored, start with power-supply, sensor-circuit and communication codes. They can cause this code as a side effect.
- 3
Test the circuit
Inspect the wiring and connector at the in vehicle temperature sensor and srs control module for damage, corrosion or chafing. With a multimeter, check supply voltage, ground and signal against the specifications in the service manual for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Temperature sensor failure; wiring short or open. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
B0164 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Good DIY job?
- Usually a shop job
Needs a scan tool and some experience with testing.
Parts and systems involved
- In vehicle temperature sensor
- SRS control module
B0164 FAQ
What does B0164 mean?
B0164 means “Air Bag In-Vehicle Temperature Sensor Circuit”. A fault is detected in the in-vehicle temperature sensor circuit used by the SRS module for deployment compensation.
Is B0164 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate B0164 as urgent severity. The car drives, but it is a safety risk. With an airbag or restraint fault stored, one or more airbags or pretensioners may not deploy in a crash. Get it diagnosed soon and do not ignore a lit airbag light.
What causes B0164?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Temperature sensor failure; Wiring short or open. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix B0164?
Typical labor is about $50–$190 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix B0164 myself?
DIY difficulty is moderate. Most owners leave this to a shop because it needs involved testing or specialist tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will B0164 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.