Air bag system trouble shooting

3190 Views 6 Replies 3 Participants Last post by cmh1129, Aug 27, 2010

jimdandy

Discussion Starter · Aug 11, 2010 (Edited)

Air bag system trouble shooting question.

1995 all track, LE, Super Charged 165k

My air bag light has been on for 6 to 8 months. I have not been able to have the problem fixed. My usual mechanic says a code came up indicating the control module as faulty. He replaced the unit with a used one from a yard he trusts and it did not fix the problem, ( dash air bag light is still on). I cannot get the vehicle inspected with the light on or so I am told by multiple sources.

Has anyone else had issues with the Previa air bag system and know likely causes, trouble shooting procedures or fixes? What is the best way to figure out the cause of this problem?

I have considered disabling the light its self. If possible I would like to have the system working however. Also I have been told that it is not as simple as cutting a wire or pulling a fuse, that one needs to dismantle the dash and pull the bulb from the cluster. Is this true or is there a easy way to get this light to go out so I can pass inspection? I may have the time coming up to take the dash apart but do not look forward to the project ( never seem to be able to get all of that kind of stuff apart without breaking something and having it looking like bad afterwards. My mechanic is also less then thrilled by the idea of pulling it all apart.)

Thank you

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cmh1129

· #2 · Aug 12, 2010

I wish I had an answer for you regarding resetting your light, I do not. In fact, I have the same problem. Apparently from what I have read, removing the battery terminals while the key is in the ignition will set off the light. The only Fix that I have read about is taking it to the dealer ....

As far as taking out the cluster to get to the bulb, that is very easy and a 10 minute job. I am out of town for a couple days, but when I get home, I can take pics and show you how.. It really is super easy...

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jimdandy

Discussion Starter · #3 · Aug 13, 2010

cmh1129

I would love to have a lead as to where to start first when it comes to getting out the instrument cluster to remove the air bag bulb. The first pieces of trim always are the ones that get me. So if you have time and can post some information it will be much appreciated.

Does anyone know if generally air bag systems can be operational even if the dash warning light is on?

Also do the dealers have super double secret diagnostic abilities/hardware/software when it comes to the air bag systems?

Thanks jd

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AlaricD

· #4 · Aug 13, 2010

There are also two airbag sensors mounted near the hood hinges (one on each side); maybe there's a problem with one of the sensors.

If the airbag light does not turn on and then extinguish when you turn the key on, it'll still fail inspection, so taking the bulb out isn't the best idea.

As far as the airbags still functioning despite the light-- are you sure that's an acceptable risk? Assume that if the light is lit, the airbags do not work.

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cmh1129

· #5 · Aug 14, 2010

From the very little I have been able to find on this subject, NO, the AIRBAG system will NOT be opperable when the light is on....

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cmh1129

· #6 · Aug 15, 2010 (Edited)

IF you go ahead and decide that you are going to remove the light, here is the way you do it.......

I said this was a 10 minute job... well, I forgot about two screws, so, add another 3 minutes to it to get the radio/ A/C bezel off......

These are the only two screws that hold the Cluster bezel in place....

Once the two screws are out... Pull carefully, but firmly. there is a little lip where my hand is... pull from there. there are three tabs that will let loose...

Once that is done, move over to the other side. A small flathead may help if you do not have fingernails. Pull twards you just a bit till the whole plastic piece can be moved to the right. wiggle it a bit to separate the vent out of its place....

From here, just pull it all up and out.....

Now you have the 4 screws that hold the cluster in. once those are out, you can pull the cluster out. If it is an Automatic, It will have the Shift indicater cable. you can either trace this to just under the dash and disconnect, work with it the way it is, or unscrew the indicater itself....
Reinstall is all the same, just opposite...

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cmh1129

· #7 · Aug 27, 2010

I just posted the reset sequence for the SRS light in a new thread ... good luck

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