B1620: Hyundai airbag control module internal fault
B1620 SRSCM internal fault (Hyundai)
Severity: Inspect soon
The airbag light means the system found a fault, and owner's manuals say to have it checked promptly because the airbags may not work as designed; an internal module fault can mean the airbags will not deploy.
B1620 in short
On Hyundai, B1620 means the airbag control module (SRSCM) reports an internal fault. On the complaints we read, dealers replaced the module, and one told the owner not to drive until it was fixed. Treat the airbags as unreliable and get a dealer check promptly.
The airbag control module checks itself and its connected circuits. B1620 is the readout dealers describe as an internal fault of the module itself, which sets the airbag light.
On a 2015 Genesis the dealer replaced the module and advised against driving without the repair. On a 2013 Elantra the airbag light stayed on and the dealer called for a new control module.
Because the module is what fires the airbags in a crash, an internal fault can mean they will not deploy. Only a technician should diagnose it.
Pick your make
B1620 is a manufacturer-specific code: its meaning depends on who built the car.
Other makes: meaning not verified. Check with a scan tool that reads manufacturer definitions.
Most likely causes
Cause 1: Airbag control module failure
Supported by vehicle data- Why it ranks here
- The dealer readout on a Genesis was "internal fault, replaced SRSCM", and an Elantra dealer called for the module on the same code.
- What would change this
- Rises if the code is current and no other airbag circuit codes are stored. Falls if the dealer finds a software update or open campaign that corrects it.
What to test first
Start at step 1. Each result tells you what it means and where to go next.
Step 1: Have a shop with an SRS-capable scan tool read the airbag module and note every stored code, current or history, and whether the fault is current.
Warning:Airbag and seat belt pretensioner circuits can deploy if probed or disconnected incorrectly. Only a trained technician following the service manual should test them.
IfB1620 is current with no other airbag circuit codes
It meansThe control module reports an internal fault; ask the dealer about open campaigns or updates before a replacement.
IfThe fault does not return after the shop clears it and checks the connectors
It meansThe fault may have been intermittent. Do not assume it is gone; the airbag light should stay off through several drives.
Symptoms
- Airbag light on and staying on
- Airbag malfunction message on the display
How to fix
This is a safety-critical system, so we explain the code but don't give repair steps. Have it inspected by a qualified technician.
On your vehicle
HyundaiYour car
2015 · Genesis
Supported by vehicle dataDealer read B1620 as an internal fault, replaced the control module and advised not to drive the car until repaired.
2013 · Elantra
Supported by vehicle dataAirbag light stayed on; dealer called for the airbag control module on code B1620.
Related codes
No curated relationships for B1620 yet.
B1620 questions
Is it safe to drive with B1620 and the airbag light on?
The car usually still drives normally, but manufacturers say the airbags may not work as designed while the light is on. Get it checked soon and do not rely on the airbags until it is.
Sources and review
- 2023 Accord Owner's Manual: Airbag System Indicators
- Camry Owner's Manual (OM06291U)
- Nissan Supplemental Restraint Systems: damage analysis and repair using Diagnostic Trouble Codes (TechNews, Summer 2016)
- NHTSA complaint ODI 10778303 (2015 Hyundai Genesis)
- NHTSA complaint ODI 11098963 (2013 Hyundai Elantra)
- Last reviewed
- Written by
- Saurabh K.
- Editorial review
- Pending
- Technician review
- Technician review pending
This page explains what a code usually means; it is not a substitute for a professional inspection. How we source and review · Report an error