How to Measure the Quality of Airbags?

[DiJanelle]

Generally, the condition of the airbag system can be checked through the computer monitoring system. If the airbag light is not on, it means the system is functioning normally. The airbag itself has a warranty period of ten years. First, disconnect the sensor connector and use a multimeter to measure the resistance between the sensor signal output terminal and the ground terminal. Then, use the multimeter for measurement. Before disconnecting the battery, always check the diagnostic codes first. During the inspection, turn off the ignition switch, and if the vehicle allows, remove the negative terminal of the battery.

[StColton]

I found that whether the airbag is functioning properly mainly relies on observing the airbag warning light on the dashboard: when starting the car, the light should illuminate for a few seconds and then automatically turn off, indicating the system has passed the self-check. If the light doesn't come on, stays lit, or flashes, there's likely an issue, such as a sensor malfunction or loose wiring. I once experienced a situation where the light stayed on constantly, and a scan at the 4S shop revealed a faulty control module—don’t attempt DIY tests, like measuring resistance with a multimeter, as it’s highly dangerous and could accidentally trigger the airbag. For regular maintenance, periodically check all warning lights, especially in older cars or those driven in humid environments for extended periods, as airbag performance can degrade. This directly impacts life-saving effectiveness in accidents, so timely repairs are crucial. Airbags aren’t something you can measure with simple tools; if they malfunction, professional diagnosis is essential.

[Destiny]

As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I've tried various methods to check the airbag system's condition. The preferred method is using an OBD-II diagnostic tool plugged into the vehicle's port, connecting to a mobile app or computer to read fault codes. A quick scan can reveal the airbag module's status. However, safety is paramount—airbags contain high-pressure gas canisters, and unauthorized disassembly poses significant risks; I only inspect peripheral components, such as ensuring the warning light turns off properly during testing. Abnormalities might indicate aging airbag inflators or wiring harness issues. I always emphasize: don't just focus on the airbag—the entire safety system, including seat belts, requires synchronized maintenance, as high humidity or prolonged sun exposure accelerates component failure. If the warning light behaves abnormally, seek professional repair immediately. Simple self-checks can prevent minor issues from becoming hazards.

[Marian]

I think checking the airbag's condition is pretty straightforward: when starting the car, if the airbag light comes on and then goes off, it indicates normal function; otherwise, there might be a fault, such as damage from impact or corrosion due to moisture. This thing is your last line of defense—don't ignore the light signal. If it stays on, I take immediate action to get it checked. You can't judge its condition subjectively, but you can prevent issues through maintenance like keeping the interior dry to avoid component aging. Airbags don't have an expiration label, so for cars over 10 years old, pay extra attention to ensure they can save your life in a critical moment. The light test is the basic method; leave complex diagnostics to the experts for safety.