5 Reasons Why The Airbag Light Might Show Up On Your Dashboard

An Airbag is an integral part of your vehicle’s overall safety. It is the only component that physically comes in contact with the passengers in case of a mishap. In most cars, there is a dedicated light that comes on the dashboard if the airbag is turned off. While most people might tend to ignore it, we should always be aware about various signs, especially the ones related to the safety features. Here are 5 reasons why the Airbag Light might show up on your Dashboard.

1. Faulty Sensors

There are a number of sensors that work together to ensure that the airbags are functional. These include sensors in the seats, seat belts, on the body, etc. Even if one of these sensors malfunctions, the airbag light will turn on. This is one of the most common reasons for the light showing up on the dashboard.

2. Dead Backup Battery

A lot of cars have backup batteries that support electronic functions like airbags. A dead backup battery may also trigger the lights on the dashboard. It will go off when the battery gets recharged. If not, the backup battery may need an immediate replacement, along with a sensor reset.

Also Read- Dual Front Airbags made mandatory in India!

3. Water Damage

Sometimes, water damage may reach the parts where the airbags are placed. It may cause a short circuit, or even corrosion resulting in a faulty airbag module.

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4. Seat Belt

The airbag light also turns on if the seat belt is not fastened on properly. If you already have put on the seat belt and the light is still blinking, there might be a problem with the buckle. There might also be an issue with the sensors on the seat belt which are connected to the airbags.

5. A Small Collision

Many times, when may hit our car slightly while parking or in bumper to bumper traffic. While the airbag might not deploy, the sensors are sensitive enough to detect the collision. This may cause the light to come on. A simple solution is to drive over to a GoMechanic workshop and give the sensors a reset.

These were a few possible reasons for your airbag light showing up. To ensure proper functioning of all related safety features, click here.

Related- What should you do when your Car’s Brakes fail

FAQs

1. What causes the airbag light to come on?

The light usually comes on when something in the system isn’t right, it could be a faulty sensor, loose wiring, or even a weak battery messing with the airbag control unit.

2. How do I get my airbag light to turn off?

The only proper way is to scan the system, find the fault, and fix it—it might be a sensor replacement, a wiring repair, or a reset of the control unit. You can disconnect the battery and the light may disappear for a while, but if the real issue isn’t solved it’ll come back again.

3. Is an airbag warning light bad?

It is, because the airbag light isn’t a minor thing you can ignore like a fuel light—it’s telling you the system that’s meant to protect you in a crash isn’t reliable right now. Leaving it as is only puts you and everyone in your car at risk.