What to Do About Your Volkswagen’s Airbag Malfunction Lights

Modern vehicles like your Volkswagen have advanced safety features that help to keep a driver and passengers safe in case of a collision or accident. The airbag is one of these features and it’s an important part of your vehicle. However, the airbag could run into some problems and begin to malfunction. The airbag malfunction light is an indicator of a problem with your car’s airbag system and if it comes on, you should take it seriously.

Why the Airbag Malfunction Light Comes on in Your Volkswagen

Before we discuss why this light comes on, let’s consider what the airbag system is and how it works. The airbag is a part of a vehicle’s Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) and its role is to cushion occupants of the car from the effects of collisions by inflating once a collision is detected. The Airbag Malfunction Light (AML) comes on in a car after a crash.

However, if this light comes up without a crash happening, then it means there is a problem and you need to fix it or the airbags won’t work when you need it. This light can come up for various reasons:

1. Faulty Sensors: The sensors are part of the SRS network and they help to notify the system of any crash or accident. However, if there is a problem with the sensors, they could wrongly read a sign of a crash and trigger the malfunction light to come on when it’s not necessary.
2. Seat Belt Problems: The seatbelts, as a part of the supplementary restraint system, work hand in hand with the airbags to keep passengers protected. This also means that a problem with the seat belt could trigger the airbag malfunction light as it could also mean a problem with the airbags.
3. Water/Moisture in the Airbag: Another reason why the Airbag could get faulty and trigger the Airbag Malfunction Light is the presence of water or moisture in the airbag modules. The airbag system could get damaged from the presence of water as it causes electrical wiring problems and other issues. This then triggers the malfunction light.

What to Do About a Volkswagen Airbag Malfunction Light?

Here are some steps you can take to fix your Volkswagen’s airbag malfunction light.

• Reset the System: This is one effective solution to an airbag malfunction light issue, especially if the problem is due to a system error or sensor malfunction. Turn off your car’s ignition and wait a few seconds before you turn it back on and you should notice the light go off.
• Identify the Cause of the Problem: If you have tried resetting the system and it failed to turn off the malfunction light, then it means there is another reason why the light remains on. You need to identify this reason so you can find a fix. You can use an OBD II scanner to detect the cause of the issue. Just plug the diagnostic link connector (DCC) into its port under the steering wheel and you will have all the information you need.
• Check and Fix Wiring or Connection Issues: The problem with your Volkswagen’s Airbag Malfunction Light could be due to electrical issues such as poor connection or faulty wiring. This means that you can easily fix the problem if you sort out the connection issues. Tighten loose connections in the airbag system and replace damaged wires.
• Seek Professional Help: If any of the above options do not work, then you may need to contact a professional mechanic to help you diagnose and fix the problem.

Professional Auto Repair Services for Your Volkswagen’s Airbag Light Issues

If you have tried all you can to fix the airbag malfunction light in your Volkswagen and it’s not working, then you may need to seek professional help. Protech Automotive Services is one of the best auto repair shops in Rhode Island. With over a decade of experience in the automobile industry, we have all it takes to handle any issue with your Volkswagen.

Our shop is open for all car owners in or around Cranston, Smithfield, East Greenwich, North Providence, Warwick, Johnston, RI. Bring your car down today, and let’s get it back to the safe and reliable vehicle you once had.