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B0087

Critical
Professional

Third Row Center Seatbelt Load Limiter Deployment Control (Subfault)

What Does B0087 Mean?

This code indicates a malfunction in the third row center seatbelt load limiter deployment control circuit or system. The load limiter is a safety device designed to allow controlled seatbelt webbing release during a crash to reduce chest injuries. The body control module (BCM) or restraint control module (RCM) has detected an electrical fault, internal component failure, or subfault condition in the load limiter deployment mechanism or its associated wiring and connectors.

Safety Warning

This is a critical safety system fault affecting occupant protection during a collision. The third row center seatbelt may not function properly in a crash, increasing risk of injury. Vehicle should be repaired immediately; continued driving places occupants at risk, and most jurisdictions consider inoperative restraint systems unsafe for passenger transport.

Common Causes

35%

Damaged or corroded wiring harness and connectors at the third row center seatbelt retractor assembly

Seatbelt Retractor Wiring Harness
Connector Terminals
Ground Connection

30%

Faulty seatbelt load limiter pretensioner assembly with internal circuit failure

Seatbelt Load Limiter Assembly
Pretensioner Unit

20%

Previous deployment or partial deployment of load limiter requiring replacement

Seatbelt Load Limiter Assembly
Pretensioner Mechanism

10%

Body control module or restraint control module internal fault or calibration issue

Restraint Control Module
Body Control Module

5%

Open or short circuit in deployment squib or firing circuit within load limiter

Squib Initiator
Firing Circuit Wiring

Diagnostic Steps

1

Step 1: Perform a visual inspection of the third row center seatbelt retractor assembly and load limiter mechanism for physical damage, previous deployment indicators (webbing pulled out, broken components), or water intrusion

2

Step 2: Using a multimeter, measure the resistance across the load limiter squib terminals at the connector (typically 2-5 ohms when functional); compare readings to manufacturer specifications and check for open or short circuit conditions

3

Step 3: Inspect all wiring harness connections from the seatbelt retractor to the restraint control module for corrosion, bent pins, moisture intrusion, or damaged insulation; pay special attention to connectors under seats and routing areas prone to chafing

4

Step 4: Check power and ground supply circuits to the load limiter assembly using a multimeter; verify battery voltage on power feed and less than 0.5 ohms resistance to chassis ground on ground circuit

5

Step 5: Clear the DTC and attempt to retrieve freeze frame data or perform an active test of the load limiter circuit using the scan tool (if available) to isolate whether the fault is present continuously or intermittent

6

Step 6: If all circuits test normal, replace the seatbelt load limiter assembly; if circuits show fault, repair wiring as needed; after repair, clear codes, perform restraint system verification procedure, and road test to confirm repair

Estimated Repair Cost

$400 - $1,500

Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location

Frequently Asked Questions

What does B0087 mean?

This code indicates a malfunction in the third row center seatbelt load limiter deployment control circuit or system. The load limiter is a safety device designed to allow controlled seatbelt webbing release during a crash to reduce chest injuries. The body control module (BCM) or restraint control ...

What causes B0087?

The most common cause of B0087 (Third Row Center Seatbelt Load Limiter Deployment Control (Subfault)) is: Damaged or corroded wiring harness and connectors at the third row center seatbelt retractor assembly

How much does it cost to fix B0087?

Typical repair costs for B0087 range from $400 to $1,500, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.

Is it safe to drive with B0087?

This is a critical safety system fault affecting occupant protection during a collision. The third row center seatbelt may not function properly in a crash, increasing risk of injury. Vehicle should be repaired immediately; continued driving places occupants at risk, and most jurisdictions consider inoperative restraint systems unsafe for passenger transport.

How do I diagnose B0087?

Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to B0087 to identify the root cause.

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Quick Info

Category

Body

System

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) / Passive Safety System

Difficulty

Professional

Type

Generic (SAE)

Recommended Tools

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