How to Deal with Airbag Light On After Water Intrusion in the Car?
2 Answers
The airbag control module may be malfunctioning. It is necessary to promptly visit the car's 4S store or a repair shop to inspect or replace the airbag control module. If the airbag warning light continues to flash or remains illuminated for more than 6-8 seconds after starting the vehicle, it indicates a possible fault in the airbag system.
I found that the airbag light came on after my car got flooded, which is a very dangerous situation. The first step is not to start the engine to avoid further water damage to the electrical circuits. Park the car in a safe place and check the water level; if the water has risen above the floorboard, it's likely that the airbag system has short-circuited. The illuminated airbag light indicates that the safety feature has failed, and the airbags may not deploy in a collision, so immediate attention is required. It is recommended to disconnect the battery's negative terminal to reduce risks, then try to dry the interior as much as possible using a wet vacuum or fans to blow-dry the carpets. However, DIY repairs are unlikely to fully resolve the issue, as water ingress often corrodes sensors or modules, causing permanent damage. It's best to contact a towing service to take the car to a professional repair shop, where technicians can use diagnostic equipment to identify the specific faults. Additionally, water damage may also affect other systems, such as the ABS light coming on, so a thorough inspection is necessary before the car can be safely driven again.
