Code Definition

B2581 — Passenger Seat Occupant Detection Circuit Short To Ground

System: Body  |  Type: Generic (OBD-II Standard)  |  Make: Generic

About B2581

B2581 is a generic (obd-ii standard) body diagnostic trouble code. It belongs to the B-prefix family of codes, which covers body, interior, airbag, or comfort-electronics faults.

When B2581 is stored, the module has detected a short-circuit (voltage pulled to ground or to supply) in the monitored circuit.

Scanning & clearing: Body (B) codes are often stored in the body control module, airbag module, or climate module. A basic OBD-II tool usually will not read body codes — an enhanced or OEM-level scan tool is typically required.

Because B2581 is a generic OBD-II code, its base definition is shared across manufacturers. The specific diagnostic steps, reference values, and repair procedures can vary by vehicle, and the TaT Diagnostic Assistant includes verified procedures submitted by working technicians.

Code Information

The Passenger Occupant Detection System uses a sensor or sensor mat in the passenger seat cushion to determine whether the seat is occupied and, on many vehicles, classify the occupant by weight to enable or suppress the front passenger airbag during a deployment event. DTC B2581 sets when the Occupant Detection Module or Restraints Control Module detects that the passenger occupant detection sensor signal circuit is shorted to ground. The system continuously monitors the sensor circuit voltage against a known reference, and a hard or partial short to ground will pull the signal below the lowe...

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