When we look at a vehicle's dashboard, there are many warning lights on it. Most people can see them illuminate when there is a problem with the car indicated by the light. The chances are that you might have seen the airbag light shining without realizing it.
You must be thinking about what can cause the airbag light to come on. There could be a lot of reasons for this, including the airbags being deactivated or not appropriately deployed if you happen to get into an accident. Therefore, it is an issue that you need to take seriously for your safety and the safety of the passengers.
What does the airbag light look like?
When we look at the vehicle's instrument cluster, the airbag light appears as one of the three different warning lights. It can either be an icon of an individual having a big ball in front of him, representing the airbag. Other than that, you may see the word 'Air Bag' or the letters 'SRS.' These are different signs that all come with the same meaning, indicating the malfunction in the airbag system. Keep in mind that this can cause the airbags not to deploy when they should.
Leading causes for the airbag light flashing or coming on
- A damaged clock spring
The clock spring of an airbag is there to maintain the electric wiring and the driver-side airbag continuity. When the steering wheel turns, it coils in and out. Therefore, it can become worn out over time, and this can cause poor connection and a potential airbag failure.
- Water damage
If you are looking for a reason what can cause the airbag light to come on, then a wet airbag module because of water damage can be the main reason for it. If the airbag module has corroded or shorted out, then there are chances that it will not work correctly.
- Problem with the sensors
There are various sensors connected to different components of your vehicle. These sensors link directly to your car's computer system for detecting and notifying any potential issues. The failure of the sensors can cause the airbag warning to illuminate. Therefore, these sensors must be checked, and you also have to reset the system.
- A depleted backup battery
If you have a drained car battery, then there is a possibility that it might have depleted the backup battery powering the airbags. This can be corrected if the battery is fully charged, but if this is not the case, you will need to recharge it along with the sensor reset.
- Small accident
There is a possibility that you may get into a minor car accident but don't apply the airbags, but it can activate the crash sensors. The crash sensors can be sensitive to any big or small accident. Therefore, the airbag light will be on until you visit an auto repair shop and get it repaired.
Summary
If you are wondering what can cause the airbag light to come on, whether it turns on by mistake or through one of the common causes, this warning light is there for a reason. Therefore, if the light comes on, it will be a good idea to get the airbag system and the sensors repaired as quickly as possible because your life and the passenger sitting next to you can be in danger.