Knowing how to reset an airbag light is one of the most important things all technicians need to know. One of the important safety components of your vehicle is the supplemental restraint system (SRS). Its function is to alert you to problems by turning on your airbag or SRS light. The light shows a seated individual wearing a seatbelt and an airbag in the shape of a circle in front of them. It can have a red, amber, or ‘AIRBAG’ display.
You should pay attention to the engine and airbag lights if they come on the dashboard, especially the airbag light. This is because of how crucial it is for your safety. Airbags are intended to activate during a car crash, but they won’t do so if the airbag light is on. So, how can you reset the airbag light?
Resetting the airbag light involves six to seven basic steps. The quickest method is to turn off the ignition, wait for a few seconds, then turn it back on.
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Turn the ignition on and off.
The ignition switch should first be turned on. Next, check if the airbag light illuminates. It typically does so after seven seconds and stays on until it automatically turns off. After that, turn off the ignition switch right away and wait three seconds.
Take a quick test drive.
Restart your ignition and take a quick test drive. Check the electrical system under the driver’s and passenger’s seats before restarting your car. Inspect the connector plug for any corrosion or loose wires. If none, spray an electronic cleaner onto the connector plugs. To see if the light shuts off automatically.
Locate and check the passenger airbag switch.
When trying to turn off the airbag light, one of the things to check is the passenger seat airbag on/off button, which is only present in some vehicles. It’s possible that someone accidentally turned it off.
Check the seat belts to ensure that they are working properly.
Your airbag light can come on because of a defective seat belt. Plug each seat belt in individually to ensure that it clicks before pressing the button to release it while your car is running.
Check if the passenger weight sensor was triggered.
Most cars have a passenger weight sensor that is highly sensitive. The issue with these particular vehicles is that placing a heavy box or container on the passenger seat will trigger the sensors.
Utilize an OBD-II scanner to reset the codes.
To reset your airbag light, you can buy a scanner with SRS capabilities if you have the technical know-how. Just be aware that not all OBD-II tools can automatically reset the airbag light. It’s wise to do some research before buying an OBD-II scanner with the features you require.
Check out the lists of best OBD II scanner here
Learn a Quick Fix on How to Reset an Airbag Light:
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- How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Airbag?
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