Date: Wed, 09 Sep 1998 22:49:30 GMT From: Ywan Mason <ymasonnopsamsouth.net> Subject: Re: SRS warning light
The SRS light indicates a problem. A code has been set in the ecu for some fault in the system. The airbag and seat belt pretensioners may or may not work when the light is on in the event of a collision. Normal procedure is for the light to illuminate on start up and go off after the system checks itself if all is well. If a problem is detected, the light flashes for 5 minutes and then stays solid until the problem is fixed or the ecu is reset and the fault is no longer present. Resetting the light or pulling codes requires either a proprietary tool or ISAT or Tech II depending on the year of the car. Disconnecting the battery will not reset the light and may in fact store false codes in the ecu, complicating the technician's task to remedy the problem. Most common problems are front g force sensors having too much resistance to ground ( fix was to clean the grounds or replace the sensor if they were not the updated types), a bad slip ring contact in the steering wheel ( replacement of the contact) or false codes set by a failing battery or ignition switch. IIRC, the factory warranty on SRS was 5 years unlimited mileage.
