B2101 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC B2101 – Head Rest Switch Circuit Failure

DTC B2101 meaning

DTC B2101 refers to a fault in the headrest switch circuit. This diagnostic trouble code indicates that the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system has detected an issue with the electrical circuit responsible for the operation of the headrest switch. The headrest switch is typically part of the seat control system, allowing the driver or passengers to adjust the position of the headrest for comfort and safety.

DTC B2101 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC B2101 may include:

  • Inoperative headrest adjustment
  • Warning lights on the dashboard
  • Intermittent or erratic headrest movement
  • Other seat control functions may also be affected

DTC B2101 causes

The causes of DTC B2101 can vary, but typical reasons include:

  • Faulty headrest switch
  • Wiring issues, such as shorts or open circuits
  • Corrosion or damage in the connector terminals
  • Malfunctioning seat control module
  • Software issues in the vehicle’s control system

DTC B2101 seriousness

DTC B2101 is considered a moderate issue. While it may not affect the vehicle’s drivability, it can impact passenger comfort and safety. A malfunctioning headrest can lead to improper head and neck support, increasing the risk of injury in the event of an accident. Therefore, it is advisable to address this code promptly.

How to diagnose DTC B2101

To diagnose DTC B2101, follow these steps:

  1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the B2101 code.
  2. Inspect the headrest switch for physical damage or wear.
  3. Check the wiring and connectors for signs of corrosion, shorts, or breaks.
  4. Test the headrest switch with a multimeter to ensure it is functioning correctly.
  5. Examine the seat control module for any faults or software issues.
  6. Clear the code and perform a function test to see if the issue reoccurs.

How to fix DTC B2101 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC B2101, follow these steps:

  1. Disconnect the vehicle’s battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.
  2. Inspect and repair any damaged wiring or connectors related to the headrest switch.
  3. If the headrest switch is faulty, replace it with a new one.
  4. Reconnect any connectors and ensure they are secure.
  5. Reconnect the vehicle’s battery.
  6. Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the DTC and perform a function test on the headrest.

How to erase DTC B2101

To erase DTC B2101, follow these steps:

  1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
  2. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
  3. Navigate to the trouble codes section on the scanner.
  4. Select the option to clear or erase the codes.
  5. Confirm the action and wait for the scanner to complete the process.
  6. Disconnect the scanner and perform a test drive to ensure the code does not return.

Recommended tools for OBD-II diagnostics

Explore our expert picks: The Best OBD2 Scanners for 2025

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.