What does the SRS warning light mean?
What does the SRS warning light mean?
The SRS warning light indicates the status of the airbag system. SRS stands for "Supplemental Restraint System." If it remains illuminated after engine start, there is a fault in the airbag system – airbags and seat belt tensioners are then deactivated and will not deploy in an accident.
The SRS warning light (also called the airbag warning light) is located in the instrument cluster on the dashboard. It displays either the word "SRS," "AIRBAG," or a symbol (seated person with airbag). The light can be red or yellow/orange depending on the vehicle – on most models it is yellow.
Normal behavior: The SRS self-test
When the ignition is switched on, the airbag control unit performs an automatic self-test. The SRS light illuminates for approximately 4-6 seconds and then goes out. This brief illumination is normal and indicates that the system is ready to function.
| Light behavior | Meaning | Action required |
|---|---|---|
| Lights briefly, goes out after 4-6 sec. | Self-test passed, system OK | None – everything is fine |
| Lights continuously | Fault detected in SRS system | Visit a workshop, read fault memory |
| Flashes | Active fault or communication problem | Visit a workshop soon |
| Does not light at all on startup | Bulb defective or tampered with | Have it checked – possible hidden fault |
What does it mean if the SRS light is continuously illuminated?
A continuously illuminated SRS warning light means that the airbag control unit has detected a fault and the entire restraint system has been deactivated. Airbags and seat belt tensioners no longer function – in an accident there is increased risk of injury.
The control unit continuously monitors all sensors, connectors, and cables in the airbag system. If it detects an inconsistency, it shuts down the system for safety reasons and stores a fault code in internal memory. The light remains on until the fault is corrected and the fault memory is cleared.
Common causes of illuminated SRS light
The most common causes are defective seat occupancy mats, corroded connectors under the seats, a worn airbag slip ring (clock spring), or a fault in the airbag control unit itself. A previous accident with stored crash data can also activate the light.
| Cause | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Seat occupancy mat defective | Pressure sensor in passenger seat no longer detects occupancy | Very common |
| Connector corroded / loose | Oxidation on connections under the seats | Very common |
| Clock spring (slip ring) defective | Contact coil on steering wheel worn | Common |
| Crash sensor defective | Sensor damaged by moisture or impact | Common |
| Crash data stored | Control unit has saved data in EEPROM after accident | Common |
| Control unit defective | Internal electronics faulty or water damage | Moderate |
| Seat belt tensioner problem | Seat belt tensioner deployed or cable defective | Moderate |
| Weak battery | Low voltage can trigger SRS fault | Occasional |
What to do if the SRS warning light is illuminated?
If the SRS light is continuously illuminated, you should visit a workshop soon and have the fault memory of the airbag control unit read. This is the only way to determine the exact cause. Continuing to drive is generally possible, but the airbag system will not protect you in this condition.
- Stay calm: The light indicates a defect, not an acute danger – you can drive to the workshop
- Read fault memory: A diagnostic device at the OBD-2 connector shows the exact fault code
- Identify the fault: The code points to the affected component (sensor, connector, control unit, etc.)
- Perform repair: Repair or replace the defective component
- Clear fault memory: After repair, delete the stored code
- Function test: SRS light must go out after restart
Can I clear the SRS light myself?
Simply clearing the fault code does not fix the cause. If the fault persists, the light will illuminate again shortly. Additionally, work on the airbag system should only be done by qualified personnel – the system contains pyrotechnic components and must not be tampered with by amateurs.
Consequences of an illuminated SRS light
A continuously illuminated SRS warning light has three major consequences: the airbag system does not protect in an accident, the vehicle will not pass the main inspection (TÜV), and traffic safety is significantly compromised.
| Consequence | Description | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| No airbag protection | Airbags and seat belt tensioners do not deploy in accident | Increased risk of injury |
| TÜV failure | Vehicle does not pass main inspection | No new inspection sticker |
| Insurance problems | Insurance may reduce benefits if defect is known | Financial risk |
Fix SRS faults: Repair at Airbag24
At Airbag24 you will find professional solutions for all SRS problems: delete crash data, repair control units, replace seat occupancy mats and clock springs. We repair all makes and models – TÜV-safe and with over 20 years of experience.
- Delete crash data: Control unit is reset and functions again
- Control unit repair: Defective electronics are restored
- Seat occupancy mats: Replacement parts for all vehicles
- Clock springs: Original quality at fair prices
- Crash sensors: OEM parts for all makes and positions
Frequently asked questions about the SRS warning light
Here you will find answers to the most important questions about the SRS warning light.
Can I continue driving with the SRS light illuminated?
Basically yes – the vehicle is ready to drive and there is no acute danger from the light itself. However, airbags and seat belt tensioners do not function in this condition. In an accident you have no airbag protection. Therefore, you should visit a workshop soon.
Can a weak battery trigger the SRS light?
Yes, low voltage from a weak or old battery can temporarily trigger SRS fault codes. After replacing the battery and clearing the fault memory, the light often goes out again. If it remains on, there is another fault.
What does repair cost if the SRS light is illuminated?
The cost depends on the cause: a corroded connector is cheaper to fix than a defective control unit. Exact prices for replacement parts such as crash sensors, seat occupancy mats, or clock springs can be found in our shop. With Airbag24's control unit repair, you save up to 50% compared to a new part.
Does the SRS light illuminate after a battery change?
This can happen. When the battery is disconnected, the control unit temporarily loses power supply and may store a fault code. Usually it is sufficient to clear the fault memory. If the light comes on again after clearing, there is a further defect that needs to be checked.