According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, frontal airbags saved approximately 50,457 lives between 1987 and 2017. Airbags are a crucial safety component in any vehicle, which is why auto repair service experts recommend never ignoring the airbag warning light when it appears on the dashboard. Every time you switch on your car, its computer assesses the system, making the light come on for a few seconds and disappear after the check. If the light remains on or blinks on and off repeatedly, it could be due to the following reasons.
A Problem with a Seat Belt
Besides airbags and sensors, your vehicle's SRS system also includes seatbelt pretensioners that engage to hold you tightly in your seat when a sudden forward motion is detected. Due to this chain of events, the system helps keep you from crashing into the dashboard, steering wheel, or airbag, thereby preventing injuries. Force limiters will then step into action, reducing the grip of the tensioned seatbelt while ensuring you remain safe during the collision. Your vehicle's airbag light will remain on if there's an issue with the seatbelt pretensioners.
Depleted Airbag Battery Backup
If your vehicle's battery was recently depleted, it probably drained the backup battery used to power the airbags, turning on the airbag light. The backup reservoir may recharge by itself once the car battery is fully charged. If it doesn't you may need to visit an auto repair shop to have it recharged and request a sensor reset.
Damaged Sensors
Your car has wide-ranging sensors connecting its different components. They're directly linked to its computer system to help identify issues and alert the driver accordingly. If the sensors trip or fail, the airbag light will illuminate to warn of potential problems. For this reason, you will have to visit an auto repair shop to have the sensors checked and reset for your driving safety.
The airbag warning light has a specific purpose in ensuring your safety on the road. Therefore, if you need airbag repair services, don't hesitate to call Auto Fitness today.