My AutoPlace

Airbag warning light: what it means and what to do

Seated person with a circle in front, or SRS

Book this weekSafe to keep driving for now, but get it checked this week.

There's a fault in the airbag or seatbelt tensioner system, so the airbags may not go off in a crash. Get it checked soon. A lit airbag light can also fail a WOF.

What it means

The light should come on briefly when you start the car, then go out. If it stays on, the system has found a fault and may have switched itself off.

Can I keep driving?

Yes, but the airbags may not protect you. Get it checked soon.

What to do now

  1. Book a check soon with a shop that has the right scan tool.
  2. Don't try to fix wiring under the seats yourself. Airbag parts can go off if handled wrongly.
  3. Check that nothing is pressing on wiring under the front seats, like items stored there.

Common causes

  • Loose connectors under the front seats
  • A faulty clock spring in the steering wheel
  • A seatbelt sensor fault
  • A stored crash code after an accident

Shops near you that can check this

Closest first. Your location stays on your phone.

Car Lab

Auckland CBD

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

M Tech

Henderson

Mechanics

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AZ Autos

Papatoetoe

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AB Autos

Panmure

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

Fredco

Kingsland

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

VIRLTD

Onehunga

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

See all mechanics in this suburb

Questions drivers ask

Can I drive with the airbag warning light on?

Yes, but the airbags may not protect you. Get it checked soon.

What does the airbag warning light mean?

There's a fault in the airbag or seatbelt tensioner system, so the airbags may not go off in a crash. Get it checked soon. A lit airbag light can also fail a WOF.

What should I do when the airbag warning light comes on?

Book a check soon with a shop that has the right scan tool. Don't try to fix wiring under the seats yourself. Airbag parts can go off if handled wrongly. Check that nothing is pressing on wiring under the front seats, like items stored there.

Need a tow? Call now

If anyone is hurt or you're in danger, call 111 first. Get off the road and wait behind the barrier.

Call AA Roadservice 0800 500 222

Members and non-members can call. Have your location and rego ready.

Other numbers to try

  • Your insurer's roadside line. Many policies include a free tow, and it's on your policy card or app.
  • Your car maker's roadside assistance, if the car is new enough.
  • A local tow company. Search "tow truck" with your suburb, and ask the price before you agree.

Need it fixed after? Find a shop near you and call them.

Book

What for?

Free to book. The shop texts to confirm, and gives you a written quote before any work.