What to do when the airbag light is on?

If the airbag light is on, it should definitely not be ignored. The constant illumination of the airbag light can have various reasons – an issue with the seatbelt tensioners, the airbag module, or the airbags themselves are just a few possibilities. To determine the exact cause and resolve it, the first important step is to drive the car into a workshop.

The airbag light is illuminated permanently

When you start your car and the ignition is on, various components in the car are checked. During this process, different warning lights briefly illuminate and then go off. Does your airbag light remain illuminated after you start the car? Then the airbag module has detected a fault in the airbag system that needs to be addressed.

To ensure the safety of the passengers in the car, troubleshooting and work on the airbag system should always be performed by authorized mechanics. At Airbagbank, our experts follow the following principle:

Step 1: reading fault codes

When the airbag light is on, the fault memory of the airbag module is initially read using a diagnostic system at Airbagbank. Thanks to self-diagnosis, errors in the airbag module itself are detected, and the fault codes are stored in the fault memory.

Step 2: visual inspection

After reading the fault codes, a visual inspection is carried out, in which all visible components of the airbag system are checked for damage and proper connections. A common cause of an airbag malfunction, for example, is a poor plug connection or defective airbag plugs in three-door vehicles. Or with slip rings, which are used with every steering movement.

Possible airbag malfunctions

If the airbag light is on, it can have many causes. Below, we have listed the most common airbag malfunctions that can cause a lit airbag light:

• Wiring problem or incorrect wiring
• Defective or broken airbag plugs
• Defective airbag module
• Defective sensors
• Defective seat occupancy mat

Step 3: rectify the cause

The third step is to rectify the faults in the airbag system. For example, it’s also possible for water to enter the airbag module, causing a short circuit. In the case of a defective cable or plug, it is often sufficient to replace these parts.

Deactivated airbag activates another warning light

An intentionally deactivated airbag also activates a warning light. However, this is a different airbag light – a yellow flashing airbag symbol with the words “Passenger Airbag Off.” When a child seat is mounted on the passenger seat, the passenger airbag is often deactivated. Before use, carefully read the user manual.

Important note: do not disconnect the airbag light!

If the airbag light is permanently illuminated, this can cause issues during the MOT inspection. Disconnecting the airbag light is an unacceptable solution that some people consider. This manipulative act is strongly discouraged because a functional airbag can provide life-saving measures in the event of a collision. After a collision, it can also be detected whether a possible fault message from the airbag control unit has been suppressed. Is your airbag light illuminated but you don’t know why? We can provide first aid for airbag malfunctions, so make sure to contact us.