Airbag 51 Code and Thanks to Rev. Sam!
 

First and foremost, like many others here, I've found Rev. Sam's video library to be absolutely invaluable. Thanks for taking the time to let us learn from your experience. I've fixed both headrests, changed dash bulbs, and adjusted the throttle cable while watching your videos.

One minor nagging issue that we've had is a airbag code 51. According to the chart (and the dealer confirmed last time we had her in for service), it's the driver seat belt buckle switch open circuit. I tried spraying some electrical cleaner in the seat belt buckle as well as cleaning / reconnecting the yellow connector in the seat back. The fault left for 2 days, but is back. Any ideas on other DIY fixes? The dealer wanted something like $1200 for replacing the seatbelt.

Hi.

I had a similar issue on my X-type. Took it to the dealer to get the buckle changed. He blew some pressurized air in the buckle and problem fixed. Has been fine for years now.
There is some kind of proximity switch in the buckle, which I think is very sensitive to any foreign debris.

Thanks for the response. I was out of town for a few days but tried the compressed air tonight. So far, so good. Hopefully it lasts longer than 2 days this time.

The Seatbelt Tongue (arrowed in red) is simply a lump of metal. It has no switching or sensing function in it.

Attachment 81301
(click on the image to enlarge it)


There is absolutely no reason to replace an otherwise perfectly functioning Seatbelt assembly for a Buckle switch fault.

The Buckle (item 2) includes a Hall Effect Sensor which detects insertion of the Tongue. The magnetic field disturbance caused when the steel Tongue is inserted creates an output signal for the SRS (Supplementary Restraint System). Malfunction of the sensor or associated circuits causes an error code. This is usually due to dirt on the sensor but can be caused by physical damage.

If the Buckle sensor is damaged, the Buckle is available as a separate part.

Graham

Graham, thanks for the advice. With distractions around the house, it took me a bit to get back to this, but the diagram helped immensely. The fault is cleared and hasn't come back in 2 weeks of driving.

You guys are the best!

Having taken out the drivers’ seat in my XK8 numerous times and minutely examined the wiring and connector to no avail I finally cleared the “51” fault code using the compressed air method as above and it’s done the trick! Amazing!

Top advice, many thanks

Treasure the moment. It's the cheapest and easiest fix you'll ever find on a Jaguar. :icon_lol:

Graham