When your airbag warning light comes on, it’s easy to ignore—especially if everything else seems to be working fine. But this little light serves a big purpose. It’s the system’s way of telling you that something might be wrong with your vehicle’s Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), which includes your airbags and seatbelt pretensioners. If this system isn’t working correctly, you may not be fully protected in the event of a collision.
Here’s what the airbag light means, why it’s important not to overlook it, and what steps you should take next.
The Airbag Warning Light
When you first start your car, the airbag light briefly turns on as part of the system’s self-check. If everything is functioning properly, the light turns off after a few seconds. If it stays on or starts flashing, the system has detected a fault and has likely disabled one or more of your airbags.
This doesn’t mean your airbags will deploy without warning. In fact, it means they might not deploy at all during a crash. That’s why treating this warning seriously is important, even if your car drives normally otherwise.
What Can Trigger the Airbag Light
There are several reasons the airbag light might come on, and they vary in severity. One common issue is a faulty seatbelt sensor. Your car’s SRS monitors not only the airbags but also whether your seatbelts are being used properly. A sensor problem could mislead the system into thinking a seatbelt isn’t fastened, which may prevent an airbag from being activated.
Another common trigger is a loose or damaged connection under the seat. Wires that control seat-mounted airbags and seatbelt tensioners can become disconnected or damaged from regular seat movement, especially in vehicles with power-adjustable or heated seats.
The issue might also be internal. A faulty clock spring in the steering wheel, for example, can interrupt the connection between the driver’s airbag and the control module. This part wears out over time, especially in cars with many miles or frequent use of the steering wheel.
In some cases, the airbag control module itself may have failed or been damaged in a prior accident that didn’t result in full airbag deployment. Water damage, corrosion, or a previous battery issue can also cause the system to malfunction and trigger the light.
Is It Safe to Drive With the Airbag Light On
Technically, your car can still run fine with the airbag light on. However, you’re taking a risk by continuing to drive without addressing the issue. If you're involved in an accident while the light is on, the airbags may not deploy, or they may deploy improperly. That means reduced protection in a situation where you need it most.
It’s also worth noting that driving with the airbag light on can affect your ability to pass a safety inspection or sell the vehicle. Many states require that the SRS be fully operational as part of inspection standards.
How We Diagnosed The Problem
Diagnosing an airbag light requires a scan tool that can read codes from the SRS. These codes indicate which part of the system has failed or is not communicating properly. Once the technician retrieves the code, they can inspect the affected component and determine whether it needs repair, replacement, or simply reconnection.
Unlike a check engine light, you can’t always reset the airbag light by disconnecting the battery. The underlying issue must be fixed before the system resets itself or allows the light to be cleared.
Don’t Delay Getting the Airbags Fixed
Ignoring the airbag light doesn’t just affect your safety—it can also lead to more expensive repairs if the problem spreads. A failing sensor could affect multiple systems over time, and corrosion or damage could worsen if not addressed promptly.
Getting it fixed also gives you peace of mind. Knowing your airbags will deploy when needed is something you shouldn’t have to question every time you get behind the wheel.
Small World Auto Repair – Airbag and Safety System Diagnostics in Eugene, OR
At Small World Auto Repair in Eugene, we understand how important it is to feel safe every time you drive. If your airbag light is on, our technicians will quickly diagnose the problem and explain your options clearly. We handle everything from sensor replacements to SRS module repairs, so you can drive confidently, knowing your safety systems are fully functional.
Schedule your inspection today, and let us help you get back on the road protected and prepared.