How to Deal with Excessive Airbag Resistance?
2 Answers
Methods for handling excessive airbag resistance: 1. Check for open circuits: When the wiring harness is poorly connected, causing an open circuit, the system will indicate excessive resistance. 2. Use computer diagnostics: Use a computer to read and determine which airbag has excessive resistance, then check if the corresponding wiring harness connector is loose. 3. Inspect the airbag internally: Check if the airbag connector is loose. If it is secure and unobstructed, it indicates an internal fault in the airbag. 4. Check the airbag clock spring: Inspect whether the wiring under the airbag is properly connected to determine if the airbag clock spring is damaged. 5. Check the airbag device: If the fault code indicates excessive resistance in the airbag control unit, it is usually caused by an open circuit in the two wires of the airbag device, and damage to the airbag reset ring is more likely to cause excessive resistance in the airbag device.
I've encountered many airbag failures during car repairs, with excessive resistance most commonly caused by poor connector contact or wiring harness aging. The clock spring in the steering wheel aging or connector oxidation can lead to increased resistance, triggering the airbag warning light. The repair steps are: first disconnect the battery negative terminal and wait 15 minutes for discharge, then unplug the airbag connector, clean the contacts with electronic cleaner, and reinstall it. If the resistance remains high, check the wiring harness for wear or breaks, especially the cables around the steering column which are most prone to damage. Remember never to work on it while powered—last time my apprentice didn't disconnect the power, and the airbag control module got fried, costing an extra two thousand bucks to replace the whole system. If you really can't fix it, it's better to seek a professional repair shop—after all, this is a life-safety component that shouldn't be taken lightly.
