B0960 code meaning
Parking Assist Rear Sensor Right Middle Circuit
What B0960 means
B0960 does not appear in the accessible J2012 lists; it is documented by GM and the GM-era Saab models as the right middle rear parking sensor. The 2011 Saab 9-5 and 9-4X list B0960 01 (short to battery), 06 (low voltage or open), 08 (invalid signal), 21 (incorrect period) and 3A (wrong part fitted); B0958, B0959 and B0961 cover the other rear sensors. The older 9-3 uses B0960 for its right centre distance sensor and checks it with reverse gear engaged and more than 9 V; on a fault the system stops measuring and mutes the warning tones. Bosch explains that such sensors emit short ultrasonic pulses and pass the echoes to a central unit, measuring up to 5.5 m. The horn relay, by contrast, is monitored by the same makers as B2750.
B0960 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.3 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of B0960
- Parking assist switches off with a message when reversing
- No warning tones although an obstacle is close
- Obstacles behind the car must be checked visually until repaired
Common causes of B0960
- Most likelySensor face dirty, iced or covered
- PossibleUltrasonic sensor defective or wrong part fitted
- PossibleBumper harness damaged after a parking knock or repair
- Less likelyParking assist control module faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Parking assist sensorParking assist module
What each part of B0960 means
| B | Body system: airbags, seat belts, power seats, lights and climate control. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 60 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note B0960 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about B0960
What does B0960 mean?
B0960 means "Parking Assist Rear Sensor Right Middle Circuit". B0960 does not appear in the accessible J2012 lists; it is documented by GM and the GM-era Saab models as the right middle rear parking sensor. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with B0960?
B0960 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will B0960 fail an emissions test?
B0960 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is B0960 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will B0960 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.