07-134-18

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SERVICE MANAGER
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SERVICE BULLETIN
APPLICABILITY: 2012-2016MY Impreza					
NUMBER: 07-134-18
		
2013-2017MY Crosstrek
				
DATE: 03/14/18
		
2015-2018MY WRX
SUBJECT:
		
DTC B1760, “Occupant Detection Sensor Mat”
New Troubleshooting Information
INTRODUCTION:
This Service Information bulletin provides a new troubleshooting chart to use when diagnosing a
DTC B1760 related to the Occupant Detection System (ODS). Following these diagnostic steps will
help avoid unnecessary ODS sensor / seat cushion assembly replacement.
SERVICE PROCEDURE / INFORMATION:
VERY IMPORTANT: BEFORE proceeding with diagnosis of any ODS-related DTC, always
check to see (feel) if the seat cushion is wet, contains any moisture or, if the vehicle has been used
under excessively humid conditions as the Airbag system may detect DTC B1760 and illuminate the
airbag warning light.
In most cases, this condition can be remedied by thoroughly drying the seat cushion assembly.
•
If any moisture is confirmed, the cushion must be completely dried, see the DRYING
PROCEDURES section supplied later in this bulletin.
•
It is VERY IMPORTANT to understand the occupant detection sensor mat is a sensitive
component. For that reason, NEVER use a heat gun or a hair dryer in an attempt to “force
dry” the seat cushion before proceeding with further troubleshooting.
A “temporarily” wet seat cushion resulting from (as examples) a window being inadvertently left
open during rainfall or possibly spilled food / drink with a resulting clean-up using water and / or
cleaning liquids can cause moisture to be left behind and B1760 (or a related DTC) to set. This is the
most common scenario and what can easily lead to an unnecessary seat cushion replacement.
It is VERY IMPORTANT to thoroughly review this information with the customer during the
Service write-up interview. Attempt to determine if this is an actual concern with the system or
if outside influence (moisture) may well be the root cause of the condition BEFORE proceeding
Continued...
CAUTION: VEHICLE SERVICING PERFORMED BY UNTRAINED PERSONS COULD
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THOSE PERSONS OR TO OTHERS.
Subaru Service Bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians ONLY. They
are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur in some vehicles,
or to provide information that could assist in the proper servicing of the vehicle. Properly
trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to
do the job correctly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that this
Service Bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition.
Bulletin Number: 07-134-18; Date 03/14/18
Subaru of America, Inc. is
ISO 14001 Compliant
ISO 14001 is the international standard for
excellence in Environmental Management
Systems. Please recycle or dispose of
automotive products in a manner that is friendly
to our environment and in accordance with all
local, state and federal laws and regulations.
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with further diagnosis or ordering any parts. Use the Owner’s Manual wording as an additional
reference for any discussions with the customer. If the memory is cleared and the seat cushion is not
thoroughly dry, the code will likely reset once someone sits in the seat again. In this case, the system
is operating as designed (unless there is a damaged component or poor harness connection confirmed
as causing the DTC).
If the passengers’ seat cushion is found wet or displays any staining, dry the seat cushion completely
using natural air. Parking the vehicle in a sunny spot with windows slightly open is recommended.
To speed the drying time, it is recommended to use the vehicle’s Air Conditioner function:
•
Park the vehicle in open area or use exhaust ventilation equipment
•
Set the parking brake and start the engine
•
Turn the A/C ON, set the blower fan to MAX, then direct airflow from the vents at the seat
cushion
•
Set A/C temperature to a comfortable room temperature (full heat is not required).
CAUTION: The occupant detection sensor mat is a sensitive part. Use of a Hair Dryer or Heat Gun
to dry the seat cushion is not allowed.
Once moisture has been ruled out as a possible cause of the DTC, proceed with the remaining
diagnostic steps below (starting with Step 3).
Continued...
Bulletin Number: 07-134-18; Date 03/14/18
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Continued...
Bulletin Number: 07-134-18; Date 03/14/18
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WARRANTY / CLAIM INFORMATION:
Refer to the Labor Time Guide on Subarunet for applicable claim coding information.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
•
SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as
previously released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time.
•
Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing.
•
Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.
Bulletin Number: 07-134-18; Date 03/14/18
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