Can you drive with SRS light on?
Can you drive with the SRS light on?
Yes, in principle you are allowed to continue driving with the SRS/airbag warning light illuminated – there is no airbag requirement in Germany and no direct fine. However, airbags and seat belt pretensioners do not function in this condition, the vehicle will not pass the TÜV inspection, and there is an increased risk of injury in the event of an accident.
The illuminated SRS light indicates that the airbag control unit has detected a fault and has deactivated the entire restraint system. This means: In the event of an impact, neither airbags nor seat belt pretensioners will deploy. Continuing to drive is possible, but only recommended for the direct journey to the workshop.
What happens if I drive with the SRS light on?
When driving with the SRS light illuminated, airbags and seat belt pretensioners are deactivated. The vehicle is roadworthy and there is no immediate danger from the light itself – but in the event of an accident you have no airbag protection. The risk of injury in a collision increases significantly as a result.
| Aspect | With SRS light on | Without SRS light (normal) |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | Deactivated – will not deploy | Active – deploy in accident |
| Seat belt pretensioners | Deactivated – will not tighten | Active – tighten on impact |
| Roadworthiness | Fully roadworthy | Fully roadworthy |
| Engine / Transmission | Not affected | Not affected |
| Accident protection | Seat belt only | Belt + airbag + pretensioner |
Is there a fine or driving ban?
There is no direct fine for driving with the SRS light illuminated in Germany, as there is no legal airbag requirement. However, the operating permit may expire if there is a known, unresolved safety defect – and this has legal consequences.
| Legal situation | Consequence | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday driving | No direct fine | No airbag requirement in Germany |
| TÜV / Main inspection | Vehicle fails (significant defect) | StVZO – Safety-relevant defects |
| Accident with personal injury | Possible contributory liability / insurance problems | Negligence with known defect |
| Operating permit | May expire with permanent defect | StVZO § 19 Para. 2 |
Important: Liability question in accident
If you knowingly drive with a defective airbag system and an accident with personal injury occurs, the insurance company may reduce its benefits. Criminal negligence may also be alleged if the defect was known and not remedied – especially if passengers are injured.
TÜV with SRS light illuminated?
With the SRS/airbag warning light illuminated, the vehicle will not pass the main inspection (TÜV). A permanently illuminated or non-illuminating airbag warning light is classified as a significant defect – the new TÜV sticker will be refused.
The inspector specifically checks the airbag warning light during the main inspection. The following situations lead to failure:
- Light permanently illuminated: Fault detected in SRS system – significant defect
- Light does not illuminate at all: Bulb removed or tampered with – significant defect
- Light does not go out after self-test: System faulty – significant defect
How long can I drive with the SRS light on?
There is no legal deadline within which you must fix the SRS light. Nevertheless, you should have the defect repaired promptly – ideally within a few days. The longer you drive without a functioning airbag system, the greater the risk in a possible accident.
| Recommendation | Situation | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Go to workshop immediately | Light comes on suddenly while driving | Head to nearest workshop |
| Within a few days | Light discovered when starting engine | Schedule workshop appointment |
| Do not postpone | Light has been on for a long time | Act immediately – safety risk |
Can I turn off the SRS light myself?
No, independently turning off or tampering with the SRS warning light is not permitted. Removing the bulb or interrupting the power supply will be detected during TÜV inspection and can be considered fraud. Only specially trained professionals may work on the SRS system.
The warning light is a safety feature that alerts the driver to a defect. Suppressing it does not eliminate the cause and increases the accident risk. Additionally, the airbag system contains pyrotechnic components – improper work can lead to unintended deployments and injuries.
Fix SRS light: Repair at Airbag24
At Airbag24 you will find professional solutions for all causes of the illuminated SRS light: delete crash data, repair control units, replace crash sensors and clock springs. All brands, all models – TÜV-certified and with over 20 years of experience.
- Delete crash data: Control unit reset after accident
- Control unit repair: Repair defective electronics
- Spare parts: Crash sensors, clock springs, seat occupancy mats, seat belt pretensioners
- Cost savings: Up to 50% cheaper than new parts
- Fast processing: 3-4 working days (express possible)
Frequently asked questions about driving with SRS light
Here you will find answers to the most important questions about driving with the airbag warning light illuminated.
Is there an immediate danger when continuing to drive?
No, the illuminated SRS light itself does not pose an immediate danger. The vehicle is fully roadworthy – engine, brakes and all other systems function normally. The danger only exists in the event of an accident, when the airbags would not deploy.
Will my insurance still pay in the event of an accident?
Liability insurance will pay the injured party even with a defective airbag. However, the insurance company may make recourse claims in cases of gross negligence (knowingly driving with a known safety defect). Additionally, comprehensive insurance policies could reduce their benefits for personal injuries.
Can the light go out by itself?
In rare cases yes – for example if a loose connection at a plug was temporary or a battery undervoltage triggered the fault. In most cases, however, the light remains on until the fault is professionally remedied and the fault memory is cleared.
What does repairing the SRS light cost?
The costs depend on the cause: a corroded connector costs little, a new control unit significantly more. At Airbag24 you save up to 50% on control unit repair compared to a new part. Exact prices for spare parts such as crash sensors or clock springs can be found in our shop.