Airbag Warning Light Lit While Driving! What to do Next

What to Do if Your Airbag Warning Light Illuminates While You’re Driving

Imagine you’re on your way to the Old Town Farm and Art Market in Wichita when suddenly you see the airbag light light up on your dashboard warning system. So alarmed, you wonder what to do next. Because, seeing your airbag warning light illuminate while driving can be concerning. And for good reason. Because your car’s airbags are an important safety feature, designed to protect you in the event of a collision. So, when that light turns on, it’s a sign that something isn’t right with the system.

Therefore, in this blog the experts at Tracy’s Tire Pros on West 21st Street take a look at what you need to do if the airbag warning light illuminates while you’re on the road.

1. Understand What the Airbag Warning Light Means

The airbag warning light (also known as the Supplemental Restraint System light) typically lights up when there’s an issue with the airbag system. And this could mean that one or more of your airbags might not deploy in the event of an accident. Or worse, they could deploy unexpectedly. And either scenario is dangerous, so it’s important to take this warning seriously.

2. Don’t Panic

First and foremost, don’t panic. Because, the light itself does not mean that the airbag will immediately deploy or that you’re in immediate danger. However, it does indicate that you need to address the issue as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.

3. Check for Other Warning Signs

The airbag warning light typically signals an issue with the airbag system. But, it’s a good idea to check for any other warning lights on your dashboard, as well. Because, if other lights (ie: Anti-lock Braking System or battery warning light) are also lit, it could indicate a more serious electrical problem.

4. Pull Over and Restart Your Car

Pull over and turn off the engine if it’s safe to do so. And then wait a few minutes, then restart your car. Because, in some cases, the airbag warning light may turn off after a simple restart. And this could indicate a temporary system error. However, if the light remains on after restarting the vehicle, the issue is more persistent and requires further attention.

5. Check the Seatbelts and Passenger Sensors

The airbag system works in conjunction with your seatbelts and sensors in your vehicle. And, if a seatbelt is not properly fastened, or if there’s a malfunction with a passenger seat sensor, it could trigger the airbag warning light. So, make sure all seatbelts are securely fastened, and that there’s no heavy object on the passenger seat that could be confusing the sensor.

6. Schedule an Inspection with the Professionals at Tracy’s Tire Pros

It’s crucial to call Tracy’s Tire Pros to schedule an inspection as soon as possible if the airbag light stays on. Because diagnosing airbag issues typically requires specialized tools to scan the vehicle’s computer for error codes. And the professionals at Tracy’s Tire Pros will be able to determine the exact cause of the warning light and recommend any necessary repairs.

7. Avoid Driving Long Distances

While it might be tempting to ignore the light, continuing to drive long distances with the airbag warning light on is risky. Because, without a properly functioning airbag system, you and your passengers are more vulnerable in the event of an accident.

8. Don’t Attempt DIY Fixes

Your airbag system is complex. And it involves sensitive components, including sensors, wiring, and explosive elements within the airbag deployment system. So, attempting to repair or reset the airbag warning light on your own can be dangerous. Therefore, always rely on the professionals at Tracy’s Tire Pros to handle airbag-related repairs.

9. Know the Potential Costs

Repairing the airbag system can vary in cost, depending on the underlying issue. For example, simple fixes like replacing a faulty sensor or seatbelt component can be affordable. Whereas, more serious issues like airbag module replacement can be more costly. However, the investment is worth it for your safety.

Tracy’s Tire Pros Can Help if Your Dashboard’s Airbag Warning Light Lights Up.

If your airbag warning light comes on while you’re driving, treat it as an urgent safety issue. Although you may not be in immediate danger, the sooner you have the system inspected by the professionals at Tracy’s Tire Pros on West 21st Street, the safer you’ll be.

Tracy’s Tire Pros can help you take the best care for your vehicle. And they have three locations for your convenience: West Maple Street auto care and auto repair, East First Street N. and West 21st Street N. Furthermore, Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.