What to do when the airbag light comes on?

What to do when the airbag light comes on?

Let's imagine you're on the road, heading for a vacation or to your workplace, and the airbag light comes on. At that moment, what should you do? This scenario is more common than you might think and raises a series of doubts and concerns. After all, the airbag system is one of the main safety components of automobiles, designed to protect passengers in the event of a collision.

When the airbag light comes on, it indicates to the driver that something is not functioning correctly - and it's a warning that should not be ignored. This warning light can come on for various reasons, ranging from minor electrical issues to more serious faults in the airbag sensors or modules.

In this article, we will explain what to do when the airbag light comes on and present some causes for this happening. Keep reading to find out how to handle these situations and ensure that your vehicle maintains optimal performance and safety on the road.

What to do when the airbag light comes on?

The first thing to do when the airbag light comes on is to stay calm. The light coming on does not mean that the airbags will deploy unexpectedly; rather, it indicates there is a problem with the system that needs to be investigated. If the light came on while you were driving, it's natural to wonder if you can continue driving. In our article "Can the car continue to drive with the airbag light on?" you can clarify all doubts, but immediately, it is important to find a safe place to stop. Avoid driving for long periods without finding out why the light came on - remember that the lit airbag light is a reminder that the vehicle's protection system has faults.

Once the vehicle is immobilized, you should consult the owner's manual. This document contains useful information about the car and what the lit light may indicate. In this manual, you may also find specific guidance provided by the manufacturer on how to react.

Also, remember that documenting the situation through photographs and videos can be very useful if you need to seek professional help. At this stage, and in order to reach your final destination, perform an initial check. We explain how in the following topic.

Initial Check and Temporary Solutions

The initial check can help identify minor problems that may have caused the activation of the airbag warning light on the dashboard. There are a few steps and temporary solutions you can take to ensure at least a safe journey to your destination.

1. Check Loose Connections

Airbag sensors are typically connected to cables under the seats. Moving the seats can loosen these connections and cause the airbag light to come on. Check for any loose connector or cable or ensure they are firmly plugged in.

2. Review Fuses

A blown fuse can cause faults in the airbag system. Consult the owner's manual to locate the fuse box and check if any fuse related to the airbag system is blown. If so, replace the fuse as needed.

3. Reset the System

Turn off the vehicle's engine, wait a few minutes, and turn it on again. Resetting the airbag system may clear the warning light if the problem is temporary. Disconnecting the battery also forces all electronic systems to reset, so that could be an option. Always handle the car battery with great care.

4. Inspect Impact Sensor

In some cases, impact sensors may be visible and can be visually inspected. Check for visible damage or displacement of the sensors.

Remember, these actions are temporary solutions that do not guarantee the airbag system will function without issues. For example, restarting the vehicle may indeed turn off the dashboard light, but it may come back on while driving.

Therefore, while initial checks and temporary solutions may be useful to identify and address minor issues immediately, it's essential to seek professional assistance to ensure the effectiveness of the airbag system. Most of the time, the cause for the light coming on requires professional intervention.

What could be causing the airbag light to come on?

There are a variety of issues in the airbag system that can lead to the airbag light being lit on the car's dashboard, which should be identified by a professional. To learn more about these causes, we suggest reading the article "Airbag Light On? Discover the causes and how to repair it!". Below are some of the main causes:

Problems with Collision Sensors;

Failures in the Airbag System Control Unit;

Loose or Damaged Connections;

Issues with the Airbag Straps.

Airbag Straps and Professional Repair

In the case of airbag straps, they are essential to ensure that the airbag system functions properly and inflates in the event of a collision. This component is crucial for protection in case of an accident, and neglecting the repair and replacement of the airbag strap compromises safety and protection on the road. Learn more about the operation and importance of airbag straps in our article "What are airbag straps and what is their importance? Find out where to buy!".

When it comes to repairing airbag straps, it's very important to trust the hands of qualified and experienced professionals in airbag systems. Remember that acquiring high-quality airbag straps is crucial to ensure your safety. Therefore, look for reliable suppliers. By investing in your automotive safety, you will also protect yourself and all your passengers, while enjoying the roads with peace of mind and confidence.

At Nova Luz, you'll find a selection of the best airbag straps for over 40 car brands. Count on a national team of excellence, with numerous models of airbag straps in stock and free returns.

If you prefer, you can schedule your appointment at our warehouse in Vialonga, where we replace the airbag strap in 40 minutes and in the presence of the customer!

If you need help or advice, feel free to contact us. Our team of experts will be happy to assist you.

All comments