Air bag code 33
 

The air bag lite is flashing 3-3 when you start up the truck. After several 33 codes it stays on constantly. I look up on internet and 33 is "passenger air bag open circuit". Pulled the glove box door and disconnected the wires and wiggled and reattached, still have code. Any one else had that code?

I'm going to assume you are referring to the 2002 Explorer listed in your signature file. According to the 2002 Factory Service Manual, a Lamp Fault Code of 33 is defined as "Restraint System - Safety Belt Pretensioner Status (Driver Pretensioner Circuit Fault)." The service manual lists a pretty significant test of 20 steps for diagnosing this fault. If you're interested, I can e-mail you a PDF of the Pinpoint Test. Since I'm still new to this forum, I'm not sure if we have Personal Message capabilities for you to provide me with an e-mail address to send the PDF to.

-Rod

It appears Ford released a TSB for the LFC of 33 in the 2002-2003 Explorer and Mountaineer. Article No.
03-11-3

-Rod

Pretensioner connector probably kicked loose under the seat.

o.k., thanks guys. i looked up a site on internet and found different years had different codes. thought i had it narrowed down to passenger air bag, but that sure was not working for me. i will check seat belt and plugs on the DRIVERS side. Rod, i have not seen the TSB, i will see if i can find it. If i need the test procedure, i will write back.

I didn't want to post a link to another forum, but since there's a direct request.... try this.

-Rod

shorod, you mentioned a pinpoint test for the flashing airbag light with code 33? Is it possible for a copy of it for digging into my 2001 expo?

Yeah, but I'll need an e-mail address to send the PDF to. If you're able to send me a Private Message, that would be best.

-Rod