Volkswagen cars are smart, reliable and safe and one of the parts that ensure safety in this automobile brand is the airbag system. An airbag is supposed to protect you in an accident, but like most systems, it has sensors and electrical parts that can malfunction and make the airbag warning light come on. Let’s discuss what the airbag light means, possible reasons for its illumination, and what to do if it doesn’t turn off.
What Does the Airbag Light Mean?
The airbag warning light is usually a symbol of a person sitting with a circle in front of them (the airbag). If this light remains on after the engine is started, it means that the airbag system has detected an issue. Whenever this light comes on, your VW car’s computer is informing you that some components in the airbag system are not functioning as they should. If you get involved in an accident while this light is on, the airbag might not inflate or might not inflate properly. This can be very dangerous and that is why it should not be taken lightly.
Common Reasons the Airbag Light Comes On
- Malfunctioning Sensors: Volkswagen’s airbag system is dependent on sensors that are supposed to detect any abrupt halts or impacts. If one of these sensors is faulty, it may lead to the airbag light being on all the time.
- Bad Seat Belt Latch or Sensor: Some airbags are linked with seat belt mechanisms. If the seat belt buckle sensor is faulty, the system will get a wrong signal that there is a seat that has not been fastened well.
- Airbag Module Failure: Airbag module is actually the central component of the airbag system. If it is not functioning or is damaged by water or has electrical problems then the light will switch on.
What To Do When You See the Airbag Light
- Never Ignore It: The airbag warning light is not just another symbol on the dash–it signals that your safety mechanism may not be functioning properly. If you continue to drive the car without repairing it, then you are actually putting your life in danger.
- Check for Simple Fixes: There are times that the issue can be resolved with a quick fix. Try to switch your VW off and then on again to check if the light goes off. Also, you should slightly shift the front seats to inspect for any loose cables underneath. If you recently had your VW battery changed, then it is wise to let your mechanic know because the system might just need to be reset.
- Go to a Professional Mechanic: If the light remains on, it is time to take your car to a mechanic that specializes in Volkswagens. The professional will plug a diagnostic tool into your car to know what is wrong with the vehicle.
- Do Not Attempt to Fix It Yourself: Airbags should not be tampered with since they are very sensitive and might even harm you if you do not know what you are doing. An error could lead to an accidental deployment of the airbag or failure to deploy during an accident. This is why airbag problems should always be dealt with by a professional technician.
Call Our Experts At Fifth Gear Automotive If You Have Any VW Airbag Problems
Safety is a primary concern to us 
at Fifth Gear Automotive and we do everything that is possible to ensure that our clients are safe on the road. Since our inception in 2004, we have been ensuring that drivers in Lewisville, Argyle, and McKinney, TX drive safely and have their vehicles perform optimally. Our technician can repair different European car brands, including Volkswagen, and we use the latest equipment to diagnose and rectify airbag system issues.
If you have a problem with your airbag, we will diagnose it, describe the problem to you in a way that is easy to understand and fix it with great precision. Whether it is a sensor problem, wiring problem or even replacement of the whole airbag module, we have the capacity to handle it. Do not wait for a crash to test whether your airbag system is functional or not. Come to us with your Volkswagen and we will ensure that all the parts meant to protect you are in good condition.
