Should I Worry When My Airbag Light Comes On?

It is understandable to feel alarmed when you see the airbag or the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) light on the dashboard suddenly illuminate while you’re driving. You may wonder whether your airbag will go off in your face without warning or if it means the airbags will not deploy in case of a collision. But here is what a lighted airbag warning light means and what you need to do about it.

WHAT IT MEANS WHEN THE AIRBAG OR SRS WARNING LIGHT COMES ON

Take note that cars have the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), which includes the airbags to the seatbelts and the occupant classification system to protect you and your passengers in case of a collision. 

So, when your car’s airbag or SRS warning light comes on, it means it detects a fault on the airbag or the SRS, which may or may not cause a problem in the worst-case scenario that you get into a collision. The whole point of the SRS is to keep everyone in the car safe, but the light signals that those protective features may not work when you need them.  

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO WHEN THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT COMES ON

The first thing to remember is not to ignore the airbag warning light; instead, have it checked as soon as possible. If it lights up before you can leave your garage, do not proceed driving and call a qualified mechanic immediately. 

When the light comes on while you’re in the middle of your drive, slowly pull over or drive carefully to the nearest automobile service shop to have it checked. The technicians will have to diagnose the vehicle to know the nature of the problem the system detected. That way, they can fix the issue immediately and ensure that you and your car’s passengers will be safe.

If you see your airbag warning light come on, or if you want to know the state your car is in, it may be a great idea to visit us. We have 27 years of experience in the industry; thus, we can help you with car diagnostics and repairs.