Can the Airbag Light Be On and Still Pass the Annual Inspection?

[MackenzieFitz]

If the airbag light is on, it will not pass the annual inspection. Below is relevant information about the airbag light: 1. Engine self-check: The indicator light will illuminate when starting the car, but it should turn off after the self-check is completed, typically within about 5 seconds. This is normal. If it remains on, it indicates a fault. 2. Types of airbag light faults: There are various types of faults, including airbag system failure, clock spring (spiral cable) failure, crash sensor failure, loose airbag connectors, or circuit breaks. It is necessary to promptly use a diagnostic tool to read the fault codes, identify the fault point based on the codes, and resolve the issue.

[Ramos]

Having driven for over a decade, I pay special attention to vehicle safety details. An illuminated airbag warning light is no trivial matter—it indicates a fault in the airbag system, which could stem from aging sensors, poor wiring connections, or control module issues. During annual inspections, examiners prioritize safety systems, and an active airbag light typically results in an immediate failure since safety regulations mandate all passive safety devices to function properly. My advice: visit a professional repair shop to diagnose the trouble code as soon as the light appears—don’t wait until inspection day. Addressing it beforehand ensures smoother certification and avoids wasted effort while eliminating daily driving risks. A non-deploying airbag during a crash significantly increases danger—never compromise safety over minor neglect.

[Diane]

In daily car repair work, I often encounter issues like the airbag light being on. Whether it can pass the vehicle inspection depends on local regulations. In most cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, the airbag light being on will definitely fail the annual inspection—inspectors will scan with a device to show system fault codes and mark it as a failure directly. The reasons could be minor issues like a blown fuse or a loose connector. Solving it in advance is simple: use an OBD tool to read the fault, replace the faulty part, or clean the contacts, which can save you from being stuck during the inspection. I recommend taking some time to visit a 4S shop or repair shop to get it fixed; it won’t cost much but should be done as soon as possible.

[Chavez]

From my driving experience, I've learned that an airbag light being on will most likely affect the annual inspection result. A constant illumination of the safety system warning light indicates a potential hazard. The annual inspection process usually includes a dashboard check, and any illuminated warning light will immediately result in a failure. Don't push your luck—get it fixed early for peace of mind, otherwise, you'll just waste time and money.