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U0480 — Invalid Data Received From Seat Belt Pretensioner Module B

Generic OBD-II · all makesNetwork / communication

U0480 indicates the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected invalid data from the Seat Belt Pretensioner Module B. The PCM flags a communication error because the data format or checksum does not match expected values.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Faulty Seat Belt Pretensioner Module B

The module itself has failed or its internal circuitry is producing corrupted signals.

2. Wiring harness damage or corrosion

Broken, frayed, or corroded wires between the PCM and the pretensioner module can distort data.

3. Poor connector contact

Loose, dirty, or oxidized pins at the module or PCM connector can cause intermittent communication errors.

4. Voltage supply problem to the module

A weak or fluctuating 12 V supply (e.g., bad fuse, relay, or ground) can cause the module to send invalid data.

5. PCM communication fault (rare)

A malfunctioning PCM CAN transceiver could misinterpret correct data as invalid, but this is far less common than a module or wiring issue.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Scan for additional related DTCs (e.g., U0481, Bxxxx) to identify system scope.
  2. Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors between the PCM and Seat Belt Pretensioner Module B for damage, corrosion, or loose pins.
  3. Perform a continuity and resistance check on the harness pins to verify proper wiring and ground paths.
  4. Supply a known good 12 V reference voltage to the module while monitoring data stream with a scan tool; compare against specification.
  5. If wiring is sound, test the pretensioner module with a bench diagnostic tool or replace with a known good unit to see if the code clears.

Code facts & related codes

SystemNetwork / communication
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make
Related codesU0478 — Invalid Data Received From Restraints U0479 — Invalid Data Received From Restraints U0481 — Invalid Data Received From Automatic LU0482 — Invalid Data Received From Headlamp LeU0483 — Invalid Data Received From Lighting CoU0484 — Invalid Data Received From Lighting Co

Frequently asked

Do I need to replace the PCM to fix U0480?

In the overwhelming majority of cases the PCM is not at fault. The code is usually caused by a problem with the pretensioner module, its wiring, or its power supply. Replacing the PCM should be a last resort after all other possibilities are ruled out.

Will the pretensioner still work if the code is present?

The pretensioner may still deploy in a crash, but the invalid‑data condition means the system cannot verify proper operation. It should be repaired to ensure reliable performance.

Can a blown fuse cause U0480?

Yes. A fuse that supplies power to the pretensioner module or its communication line can cause low voltage, leading to corrupted data and the U0480 code.

Is the code related to the airbag system?

U0480 is specific to the seat‑belt pretensioner communication, but because the pretensioner works with the airbag system, a related airbag warning lamp may also appear.