Car Basics
All warning lights

Airbag / SRS Warning

Drive carefully to a mechanicTypically Red or Amber on the dash

A fault in the supplemental restraint system — airbags may not deploy in a crash.

What it means

The SRS computer has detected a fault in an airbag, seatbelt pretensioner, crash sensor, or the clock spring in the steering wheel. The car drives normally, but one or more airbags may be disabled until the fault is repaired.

Can you keep driving?

Yes — the fault does not affect how the car drives. But your crash protection is compromised, so schedule diagnosis soon and avoid carrying passengers in affected seats if you know which circuit failed.

What to do now

  1. 1

    Check under the front seats for loose or unplugged yellow connectors, especially if the seats were recently moved.

  2. 2

    Have the SRS codes read with a scanner that supports airbag systems (basic OBD-II readers often cannot).

  3. 3

    Do not probe airbag wiring yourself with a multimeter — accidental deployment risk. Leave SRS diagnosis to a professional.

Likely causes

  • Worn clock spring (spiral cable) in the steering wheel
  • Disconnected or corroded seat-occupancy or belt-tensioner connector (often after moving seats)
  • Failed crash sensor
  • Depleted backup battery in the SRS module
  • Previous accident damage or deployed pretensioner

Typical fix cost

$0–$50 to reseat a connector; $150–$400 for a clock spring; $250–$800 for sensors or module work

Ranges reflect mainstream US parts-and-labor pricing; your vehicle and region will vary.

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