Accidents happen, and when they do we want to ensure that all the safety components of our vehicles are functioning. So, if the airbag light on your car is randomly turning on and off, you're probably wondering why. We've researched this to help you troubleshoot.
Possible reasons for the airbag light to turn on include:
- a blown fuse
- the airbag is malfunctioning
- a broken clock spring
- damage wiring
- inaccurate data being sent to/from the computer system
- a damaged seat belt sensor
You'll want to diagnose the issue of an airbag light turning on and off as soon as possible. So, stay tuned as we'll delve into other reasons why your airbag might not be working properly and how you can best diagnose the issue.
Reasons Why Airbag Light Turns On And Off Randomly
The steering wheel, dashboard, or seats all have airbags that are built to immediately inflate in the event of a collision. In this manner, the airbag can cushion and safeguard the driver or passenger. Those previously mentioned areas listed above, you should check in case the airbag light malfunctions.
Aside from those, here are a few additional reasons why your airbag light could be turning on and off randomly.
Faulty Airbag Module
The airbag module oversees managing airbag deployment. If it is damaged, the airbags might not deploy correctly, which would result in the light flashing on and off.
Faulty Clock Spring
The airbag's ability to deploy when required is due to the clock spring. In the case of a collision, the airbag might not effectively deploy if it is broken. The airbag light could flash on and off because of this.
Faulty Sensor
If your seatbelts aren't buckled, sensors in your car will check for this and turn on the airbag light. The light could turn on if the sensor is damaged because it might think the seatbelt is not fastened even when it is.
How do you test an airbag sensor?
In order to test an airbag sensor safely, use an automotive diagnostic tool to retrieve the error codes and real-time data from the airbag control unit.
How much does it cost to repair the damaged airbag sensor?
The typical cost to replace an airbag sensor is between $100 and $600. Starting with airbag sensors, which can cost between $49 and $300. This will also include labor, which ranges in price from $50 to $300.
Depleted Airbag Backup Battery
Your car's backup battery for the airbags can be there if it's an older model. Over time, this battery could run out, at which point the airbag light might illuminate. To resolve this problem, a new battery must be installed.
Damaged Airbag
The airbag itself could be damaged if the airbag light is intermittently turning on and off. This might be the result of several things, like a manufacturing flaw or an accident.
If you think this might be the case, it’s important to take your car to a mechanic or dealer as soon as possible so they can check it out.
Wet Airbag Module
The airbag module under the driver's or passenger's seat could have been impacted if your car has water damage. It won't function properly if it is damaged or shorted out.
Your airbag warning light is there for a reason, whether it is on intentionally or because of one of these typical causes. You should get your airbag system and sensors fixed as soon as possible if it starts to come on. If airbags won't deploy in an accident, why even have them?
Can I drive without airbags?
Driving a car or any other motor vehicle without an airbag is now banned under the law. However, driving a car without these safety features is not advised.
How much does it cost to fix the airbag light?
Before you continue to drive the car, you must get an expert to inspect the airbags. This procedure typically takes several hours and costs a few hundred dollars, though depending on the car, it might cost as much as $600.
How can I bypass the airbag light?
By bridging the airbag light and other airbag components using resistors, you can bypass them. However, since you'll undoubtedly wish the airbag feature was functional if you're in a catastrophic accident, we strongly advise repairing the problems instead.
Closing
You might also be wondering, “Can I drive a car that has an airbag that goes on and off?"
Any time the airbag light flashes on and off, there is a problem with the system that needs to be fixed right away. With an airbag light that flashes on and off, it follows that driving is not safe.
If you notice something on your vehicle, you shouldn't continue driving because it could cause major issues. You shouldn't get behind the wheel again until the mechanic has inspected and corrected the issue for your safety.
Do you have other answered questions about airbags, or what your safety lights are telling you? Check out our related posts:
Dashboard Lights Not Working – What To Do?