If you are a Jaguar owner and have noticed the airbag/SRS light on your dashboard, you may be wondering what could be causing it to stay illuminated. This warning light indicates an issue with the airbag system, which can be a potential safety concern. In this article, we will discuss the common causes & symptoms of the airbag/SRS light and provide you with some solutions to fix the issue.
What does the airbag / SRS light mean on a Jaguar?
The illumination of the Airbag/SRS warning light is a sign of a system malfunction, which can lead to airbags either not deploying in a critical situation or deploying unexpectedly, potentially causing serious harm. Moreover, when this warning light turns on, it records a fault code that can be examined using an airbag scanner. There could be numerous reasons for the airbag light activating, including a malfunctioning clock spring, deployed airbags, and a defective SRS module, which will be further explained below.
Can You Still Drive Your Jaguar with Airbag Light On?
While the airbag light won’t directly impact the functionality of your vehicle’s driving operation, it’s generally advised not to operate the vehicle when this light is on. This is due to the inherent risks involved: airbags might fail to activate during a collision or deploy spontaneously, endangering the vehicle’s occupants and driver. The airbag system is a protective measure for the driver and passengers in the case of a car crash. As such, it’s crucial to address this issue as soon as possible before driving your vehicle again.
Symptoms
When the airbag/SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) light comes on in a Jaguar, it indicates a fault within the system. Several symptoms may accompany the airbag/SRS light, which can vary depending on the nature of the fault.
- Illuminated Airbag Warning Light: The most obvious symptom is the illumination of the airbag warning light on the dashboard. This light generally stays on when the ignition is turned on.
- Intermittent Flashing of Airbag Light: Sometimes, the warning light flashes or flickers intermittently, suggesting a potential problem.
- Failure in Other Safety Systems: Since the SRS system is interconnected with other safety features in your car, you may also notice other warning lights illuminating your dashboard, such as the seatbelt warning light.
- Error Messages on the Display: Modern Jaguar vehicles can provide specific error messages on the display panel indicating faults within the system.
- Horn not working: Some Jaguar models have an airbag integrated into the steering wheel. When there is a fault in the airbag system, the horn may not work, as the module is designed to disable the circuit that activates the horn.
- Traction Control and ABS Lights: In some cases, the airbag/SRS light may trigger other warning lights on the dashboard, such as the traction control and ABS lights, as these systems are also connected to the same network of sensors and control units as the airbag system.
Common Causes
The most common problem that triggers the airbag on Jaguar vehicles is the failure of the clock spring that connects the airbag control units to the driver’s airbag. Another common problem is the failure of the passenger occupant weight sensor.
Weak or Dead Battery
If the battery voltage falls below 9.5 Volts, it will often trigger the airbag light. In that case, the SRS control module might register a fault code in its memory, causing the airbag/SRS warning light on the dashboard to activate. The airbag system requires a stable voltage to operate correctly. However, in certain instances, specialized diagnostic tools may be necessary to erase the fault code manually. It’s critical to recognize that a depleted or completely dead battery can also disrupt other vehicle systems, such as the engine management system, transmission control module, and various electronic systems. You may also get ABS, traction control, stability control, and no-start condition. Consequently, it’s advised to get the battery tested and replaced if needed to prevent additional complications with the vehicle’s electronic systems.
Faulty Clock Spring
The clock spring is a vital component that bridges the steering wheel to the vehicle’s other electrical systems, maintaining electrical connections even while the steering wheel turns. If this clock spring malfunctions, it can interrupt the electrical connection to the airbag and ABS systems, triggering the warning lights. In some scenarios, the horn might cease to function, as it, too, is linked via the clock spring. Replacing a defective clock spring calls for specific expertise and tools. Before removing and installing a new clock spring, disconnect the negative battery terminal first and wait at least 15 minutes. This precaution helps to avert inadvertent airbag deployment during the process.
Faulty Airbag Control Module
The airbag/srs control module oversees the system’s components, including airbags, seat belt pre-tensioners, and weight and crash sensors. If this module malfunctions, it may lead to the airbags deploying unpredictably, failing to deploy during a crash, or deploying with inadequate force. These situations can potentially result in severe injuries or fatalities in a collision. One of the most common reasons for airbag module failure is water damage. Also, you can use an airbag scanner to read fault codes.
If the airbags have been activated due to an accident, it is necessary to reset the SRS module to restore its functionality. Resetting the airbag/SRS module can resolve minor issues; however, replacing the module with a new one may be necessary for more serious problems.
Faulty/Defective Crash/Impact Sensors
The crash or impact sensors notify the airbag control module during a vehicle collision, triggering the airbags to deploy. If these sensors fail, the airbag warning light will turn on, and an error code will be registered on the srs module. A common reason for sensor failure might be removing these devices during front-end vehicle repairs, which can cause damage or promote corrosion. You’ll require an airbag scanner to read the error code to identify a malfunctioning sensor. Before proceeding with sensor replacement, we advise checking the integrity of the wiring.
Lose, Corroded, & Damaged Wiring
The airbag or supplemental restraint system (SRS) relies on wiring and connectors to facilitate communication between its various elements and sensors. If the wiring gets loose or suffers from corrosion, it can disrupt the signal transmission, causing the airbag warning light to turn on. The wiring can deteriorate over time due to heat or repeated bending or pinching, which could result in a broken wire. Although pinpointing defective wiring can be challenging, a scanner can identify which sensor is not working properly, allowing for closer inspection of its associated wiring.
Blown Airbag
In the event of a collision leading to the deployment of your vehicle’s airbag, it becomes essential to immediately replace the airbags since they’re designed for single use only. Post-replacement, resetting the airbag control module to ensure it functions effectively is necessary. Detecting a triggered airbag isn’t complicated; you only need an airbag scanner to reveal which airbag has been deployed or is still to be replaced.
Deployed Seat Belt Pre-tensioner
The seat belt pre-tensioner is a critical part of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), designed to quickly pull back the seat belt during a crash, lowering the likelihood of harm. It self-tightens to help keep the passengers and driver from colliding with the inside of the car. It’s crucial to understand that once a seat belt pre-tensioner has been deployed, it can impact the functionality of other safety mechanisms in the vehicle, like airbags.
Occupancy Passenger Sensor
The occupancy passenger sensor is the one that detects the weight, whether an adult or a kid is sitting in the passenger seat. The sensor will send a signal to the srs module, enabling or disabling the airbags from deploying the airbags. Airbags can be dangerous to kids. That’s why it will be disabled if a kid is seated in the passenger seat. To diagnose the occupancy passenger sensor, you will need an airbag scanner to read the stored fault codes. We also recommend inspecting the sensor’s wiring before replacing the occupancy passenger sensor.
How to Reset Jaguar Airbag / SRS Warning Light?
The airbag light on a Jaguar can come on for several reasons, including a defective clock spring, faulty impact/weight sensor, dead or weak battery, etc. To find out, you need to read the codes with a scanner that can read the airbag module, such as YOUCANIC full system scanner. Then fix the underlying issue and clear the codes outlined in the section below.
- Locate the OBD-II port under the dashboard and plug in your adapter.
- Power on the Youcanic scanner: Press the power button until the device turns on.
- Go to the ‘Diagnose’ option: On the scanner’s main menu, select the ‘Diagnose’ option.
- Select the Vehicle Make: You will see a list of vehicle makes. Scroll through the list until you find your vehicle’s make, then select it.
- Select ‘Control Units’: The next screen will display different options after selecting the make.
- Find and select the ‘Control Units’ option.
- Select ‘Airbag/SRS Control Unit’: The next screen will show a list of various control units.
- Scroll down until you select the ‘Airbag/SRS Control Unit’.
- Read or Clear codes: Here, you can ‘Read codes’ or ‘Clear codes.’ To read the airbag codes, select ‘Read codes.’ The scanner will then display any stored airbag codes.
- To clear the airbag codes, select ‘Clear codes.’ Follow any prompts that appear to clear the codes. Please note only clear codes after the problem has been fixed. Clearing the codes without fixing the problem may cause the codes to reappear.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does it Cost to Fix Jaguar Airbag / SRS Light?
These are rough estimates, and the actual cost may vary depending on the specific issue and the model of the Jaguar vehicle.
Faulty Sensor or Damaged Wiring: $200 – $500
Defective Clock Spring: $500 – $1000
Defective Airbag Control Module: $1000 – $3000
Blown airbag: $1000 – $3000
Defective Occupancy Passenger Sensor: $500 – $100
What is the Importance of the Airbag Light?
The airbag system or SRS warning light on a Jaguar is a safety signal that warns the driver that the system is malfunctioning. Operating your vehicle while the airbag/SRS warning light is on can expose you and your passengers to danger in the event of a crash. This is because a malfunctioning airbag system might not trigger at all or deploy but not with enough force, which can lead to serious harm or even fatalities.
Can I Reset Airbag Light without a Scanner?
It is not recommended to attempt to reset the Jaguar airbag light without a scanner, as doing so may not address the underlying issue that caused the light to turn on in the first place.
You will need a scanner to reset the airbag light. You can use the YOUCANIC Full System Scanner to read and clear codes; this scanner can run through every control module of your vehicle, including the Airbag or SRS Control Module. Modern Jaguar vehicles have sophisticated electronic systems, including the airbag system, that require specialized diagnostic equipment to diagnose and repair issues properly. Without a scanner, you may not be able to accurately diagnose the issue or determine if there are any other issues with the airbag system.
Can I reset Airbag Light by Disconnecting Battery?
This method may be ineffective in every circumstance and not offer a lasting fix if the root problem that triggered the light hasn’t been resolved. Unplugging the battery might reset certain electronic systems in the vehicle, like the airbag system. However, this could lead to the loss of saved information, such as radio station presets and time settings on the clock. Moreover, merely disconnecting the battery doesn’t necessarily tackle the fundamental problem that initiated the activation of the airbag warning light.
Does Replacing Jaguar Clock Spring Triggers Airbag SRS Light?
Suppose the clock spring is not installed correctly or the electrical connections are not properly aligned. In that case, it can cause disruptions in the airbag system, illuminating the airbag/SRS light. Additionally, suppose the clock spring replacement requires removing the steering wheel. In that case, there is a risk of accidentally disconnecting other components, such as the airbag control module, which can also trigger the airbag/SRS light.
Will the Airbag Deploy if the Airbag Light is On?
If the airbag or Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) light is illuminated, it usually points to a problem with the system, which could potentially prevent the airbags from deploying.
Can a Blown Fuse Cause Airbag to Light On?
Yes, because there’s a fuse for the airbag light system. The fuse protects the system from short circuits or system overload; it will be the first to be damaged, saving the other electrical components of the airbag system.
Fault Codes
Many possible fault codes can trigger the airbag/SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) light on a Jaguar, and the specific fault codes can vary depending on the model and year of the vehicle. However, here are some common fault codes that may appear:
- B0091: Left Side Restraints Sensor Cluster Internal Failure
- B0092: Right Side Restraints Sensor Cluster Internal Failure
- B0093: Left Side Impact Sensor Communication Error
- B0094: Right Side Impact Sensor Communication Error
- B0095: Left Front Seat Belt Pretensioner Deployment Control Circuit Open
- B0096: Right Front Seat Belt Pretensioner Deployment Control Circuit Open
- B0097: Left Front Seat Belt Pretensioner Deployment Control Circuit Short to Ground
- B0098: Right Front Seat Belt Pretensioner Deployment Control Circuit Short to Ground
- B0100: Electronic Front End Sensor #1 Malfunction
- B0101: Electronic Front End Sensor #2 Malfunction
- B0102: Electronic Front End Sensor #3 Malfunction
- B0103: Electronic Front End Sensor #4 Malfunction
Also, if you have no scanner, turn on the ignition, and after 6 seconds, the airbag light will flash a few times. Count the number of flashes to know what part needs to be inspected and replaced.
- 13 Flashes – Crash Data Memory is Full
- 16 Flashes – Faulty Occupancy Passenger Sensor
- 17 Flashes – Faulty Spatial Sensor
- 18 Flashes – Passenger Airbag Deactivate Lamp Circuit
- 19 Flashes – Faulty Driver’s Airbag Circuit
- 21 Flashes – Faulty Passenger’s Airbag Circuit
- 22 Flashes – Faulty Side Airbag – Driver’s Side
- 23 Flashes – Fault Side Airbag – Passenger Side
- 24 Flashes – Faulty Internal Restraint Control Module
- 33 Flashes – Faulty Driver’s Seat Belt Pre Tensioner
- 34 Flashes – Faulty Passengers Seat Belt Pre Tensioner
- 42 Flashes – Faulty Front Crash/Impact Sensor
- 43 Flashes – Faulty Driver’s Crash/Impact Sensor
- 44 Flashes – Faulty Passengers Crash/Impact Sensor
- 51 Flashes – Faulty Driver’s Seat Belt Switch Circuit
- 52 Flashes – Faulty Passengers Seat Belt Switch Circuit
- 53 Flashes – AIrbag Warning Circuit Fault
- 54 F.ashes – Restraint Control Module Configuration Malfunction
Applicable Models
All Jaguar models have an airbag/SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) system installed as a standard safety feature. Here is a list of some of the Jaguar models that have an airbag/SRS system:
- Jaguar XE
- Jaguar XF
- Jaguar XJ
- Jaguar F-Type
- Jaguar E-PACE
- Jaguar F-PACE
- Jaguar I-PACE
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