Airbags are essential and potential life saving safety features now readily available in every automobile since their 1998 requirement for car manufacturers. Not only are both driver and passenger airbags constant, but many vehicles will feature side-impact airbags in addition to the required front dash units. These are deployed in the event of an accident and have helped to save numerous lives since their creation.
Serving as an essential safety feature, any issue regarding the potential non-deployment of an airbag immediately becomes a critical issue. Neatly tucked into the steering wheel and dash opposite passengers, these compact cushions of safety need to deploy effectively in the event of a car crash.
Most newer model vehicles have a warning light indicator should something malfunction within the safety feature system requiring some type of maintenance. While oil changes and check engine lights may allow for some variance in the time needed for addressing the indicator, immediate diagnosis of an airbag indicator light can be life saving.
Often a faulty clockspring is the culprit behind a warning light, but a professional diagnosis will be key to determining the cause for illumination. A scan will often reveal one of the following symptoms, indicating the clockspring is in need of replacement.
-Driver Airbag Squib Circuit High Resistance
-Driver air bag circuit resistance too high
-Driver Side Air Bag Circuit High Resistance or Open
-Driver squib circuit open
Other signs of a bad clockspring essentially relate to any buttons or actions which can be performed from the steering wheel not functioning. These include the horn and other push button features readily available on modern automobiles like radio controls, cruise control or bluetooth cell phone features.
If the horn doesn’t sound when engaged, the cruise control features do not properly function including set, resume, etc., or driver’s cannot execute or receive a phone call via the push of a button on the steering wheel face an obvious malfunction has occurred. Typically, this is addressed by replacing the clockspring located within the steering column.
Potential other warnings include a rubbing noise while turning the vehicle or other warning indicator lights becoming illuminated. In an effort to ensure the proper steps are taken to remedy the situation, a professional examination and diagnosis should be completed.
The experts at Mancinelli’s Auto Repair Center can diagnose the reason behind your airbag light illumination or complete a variety of potential other services needed on your vehicle. Their trained professionals will be happy to answer any and all questions regarding car care or perform a needed service to any model vehicle on the road. ASE certified mechanics are fully trained and certified to work on any car, van, SUV, or truck regardless of the current state. A full review and inspection of your automobile can be completed in a timely manner to keep your vehicle running both effectively and efficiently. Leave your auto with someone you know as most services can be administered the same day. Request an appointment online or call today.