Why does the airbag light come on?
2 Answers
The reasons for the airbag warning light to illuminate are as follows: 1. Engine self-check. The indicator light will come on when starting the car, but it will turn off after the self-check is completed, which takes about 5 seconds. This is a normal phenomenon. If it does not turn off, it indicates a fault. 2. False fault. Since the airbag is controlled by circuits, there are many reasons that can cause the airbag light to come on. For example, if the battery is severely depleted, the airbag may send a signal indicating low voltage, generating a fault code. In this case, simply clear the code. 3. Actual fault. There are many possible causes for this, such as airbag failure, clock spring failure, crash sensor failure, loose airbag connector, or circuit breakage. It is necessary to use a diagnostic tool to read the fault code and locate and resolve the issue based on the code. If historical faults reach the tolerance limit of the ECU airbag system control unit, use the diagnostic tool to clear the fault codes. If the light remains on after restarting the car, it indicates that there is still a current fault present. Please refer to step "1" for troubleshooting.
With years of experience in auto repair, I can tell you that an illuminated airbag light usually indicates a fault detected by the airbag system's self-check. This system includes crash sensors, the airbag control module, and wiring harnesses. Common causes include false sensor readings, poor or loose wiring connections, or module aging. If the light is on, the airbags may not deploy in an accident, which is extremely dangerous. I recommend first using an OBD-II scanner to read the trouble codes and pinpoint the specific issue. For example, sensors under the seats can easily become loose, and you can check the connectors yourself to ensure they're secure. However, if the problem lies with the control module, it requires professional repair or replacement. Don't underestimate this issue—addressing it promptly can save lives. Regularly cleaning connectors during maintenance can help prevent faults. If the light comes on while driving, the risk is too high; pull over and inspect as soon as possible.
