Airbags inflate in a fraction of a second to cushion you in a crash, working together with your seatbelt. They only protect you if the whole system is healthy, which is why an airbag warning light should never be ignored. Here’s how the system works and what to do if something isn’t right.

Understanding Your Car’s Airbag System

The airbag system is often called the SRS (Supplementary Restraint System). “Supplementary” is the key word: airbags are designed to work with a fastened seatbelt, not instead of one. Most cars have front airbags, and many add side, curtain and knee airbags. The system includes crash sensors, a control module, the airbags and the seatbelt pretensioners.

Activation and Deployment: How It Works

Sensing a Crash

Sensors measure sudden deceleration. If the control module decides the impact is severe enough, it triggers the airbags in about 30 milliseconds, faster than the blink of an eye.

Inflation and Deflation

An inflator fills the bag with gas, and small vents let it deflate straight away so you aren’t pinned or blocked from seeing out. The fine powder you may see afterwards is a lubricant that helps the bag unfold.

The SRS Warning Light

Each time you start the car, the SRS light should come on briefly and then go out. If it stays on or flashes, the system has found a fault and the airbags may not deploy in a crash. Common causes include a faulty seat or seatbelt connector, a worn clock spring behind the steering wheel, or a low battery voltage. We read the fault codes with diagnostic equipment and explain what we find before any work starts.

After a Deployment

Inspection

After any crash where the airbags have deployed, the system needs a full inspection. Sensors, wiring and seatbelt pretensioners can be affected even if they look fine.

What Gets Checked or Replaced

The deployed airbags, the control module and any triggered pretensioners usually need replacing, and the sensors and wiring are tested. Always check your insurance policy, and use repairers who follow the manufacturer’s procedures.

Keeping Your Airbags Working

  • Always wear your seatbelt and sit upright, at least 25 cm from the steering wheel.
  • Never place children in a front seat with an active airbag; follow Transport for NSW child restraint rules.
  • Don’t fit seat covers or dashboard accessories that aren’t approved for airbag seats.
  • Get the SRS light checked promptly. We also check for open manufacturer recalls at every logbook service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drive with the airbag light on? The car will drive, but the airbags may not work in a crash. Book a check as soon as you can.

Can I reset the airbag light myself? Clearing the code doesn’t fix the fault. It needs to be diagnosed with the right equipment.

How do I know if my car has an airbag recall? Search your VIN on the ACCC Product Safety recall site, or ask us at your next service.

Airbag light on? Book a check online or call (02) 9545 3051. The team at Sutherland Automotive in Kirrawee will explain what we find before any work starts. Related: vehicle diagnostics.