Troubleshooting Volvo SRS Airbag Light Stays On
Volvo airbag light, also known as the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) light, is an important indicator of the airbag system’s status of a Volvo vehicle. When the light turns on, it means that there is a problem with the airbag system, and it may not function properly in the event of a collision. Understanding the causes and common warning signs of airbag issues in Volvo vehicles is crucial for ensuring the safety of the driver and passengers. In this article, we will explore the meaning of the Volvo airbag light, common causes for the light to turn on, and troubleshooting steps that can be taken to fix the problem. We will also discuss the importance of timely maintenance and repair to ensure the airbag system is always ready to protect you in case of an accident.
Volvo SRS Airbag service urgent comes on when the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) detects a problem such as low battery voltage or a defective passenger occupancy sensor. In this article, you will become familiar with common problems that cause Volvo SRS Airbag warning messages and how to reset the Volvo SRS Airbag warning light yourself using a Volvo airbag scanner.
What do Volvo Airbag Light and SRS Service Urgent Mean?
If you see SRS airbag service urgent on the dashboard, there is a problem with the airbag system. The SRS Service Urgent message typically appears in the instrument cluster of the vehicle when there is a fault in the SRS system.
When the SRS Service Urgent message is displayed, the airbag system has detected a problem and can no longer function as intended. The system will be disabled until the problem is resolved.
It is important to note that these warning lights and messages are not the only indications of airbag problems but also indications of other systems related to it, such as Crash Sensors, Airbag Control Modules, Airbags, Wiring, or Connectors. The specific cause of the problem will need to be diagnosed by a qualified technician using diagnostic tools to identify the fault code and repair the issue.
It is highly recommended to take the vehicle to an authorized dealer or a qualified technician for proper diagnosis and repair as soon as possible. In the meantime, keep in mind the airbags may not deploy in the event of an accident, putting the occupants at risk. The airbags of your Volvo may not deploy if you get in an accident. Even though Volvos are some of the safest cars on the road, the car will not be safe with an SRS airbag warning message on the dashboard.
How to Reset / Diagnose Volvo Airbag Light
To find out why your Volvo airbag light stays on, use a Volvo Airbag Scanner to read the SRS module’s fault codes. Do not use a generic scanner. Generic OBD-II scanners are not able to retrieve airbag codes. The YOUCANIC Full System Scanner can read and clear fault codes from all control modules.
- Locate the OBD-II port under the dashboard. Connect your Volvo scanner.
- Turn on the ignition but do not start the engine.
- Select Volvo and the correct model from the menu.
- Select Control Units, then scroll to SRS Airbag Control Unit.
- Next select Read Codes. Write down all the codes.
- To clear the SRS light, fix the problems found in step 5. Then select Clear Codes.
These steps will help you diagnose and reset Volvo SRS airbag service urgent message. The airbag light can be reset if there are no issues with the SRS system. For example, the light was triggered because you disconnected an airbag wire, replaced the radio, or had a dead battery. Such fault codes are in STORED status and can be cleared.
If an airbag problem is PRESENT, you can’t reset it. Even if you try the SRS airbag, an urgent warning will come back immediately after restarting the car.
Common Problems
SRS malfunctions are often caused by low voltage or dead battery, working on the electrical system without disconnecting the battery, damaged clock spring, or SRS control unit issues.
1. Disconnecting Airbag Wires
Disconnecting components such as the stereo, seat, airbag, and sensor of the airbag system without disconnecting the battery is among the most common reasons that Volvo SRS warning comes up.
The good news is that you don’t need to take the car to the dealer to reset the SRS Airbag warning message. While you can’t reset airbag warnings with a generic OBD2 scanner or disconnect the battery, you can use a Volvo scanner to clear the airbag module’s fault code. Rember to always disconnect the battery when you work on the electrical system.
2. Instrument Cluster / DIM
The Driver Information Module (DIM), which Volvo calls the instrument cluster, may fail. When DIM fails, an SRS airbag alert comes up. You will also notice intermittent electrical issues on the dashboard, such as other warning lights, gauges not working, or the speedometer not working.
You can learn more about this problem here: Volvo Instrument Cluster DIM Problems.
3. Previous Accident
If your Volvo was involved in an accident, the airbag light might come on, even if it is minor. An accident event will be stored in the SRS module. After a car accident, items such as seat belt tensioners and airbags deploy and will need to be replaced.
After replacing the airbags and seat belt tensioners, you will need to either replace the SRS module or reset it. Replacing the SRS module costs $1000+, but a less expensive fix would be to remove the SRS module from the center console and send it for repair to a specialist. Check out these places that offer Volvo SRS Airbag module repair on eBay.
4. Dead Battery
Volvo SRS airbag message can also come on when you replace the battery or jump-start the car if your battery dies.
The Volvo SRS module does not operate properly at low voltage. Therefore it stores a low voltage fault code in the SRS module, triggering the SRS Airbag Service Urgent message. Codes related to the low battery can be cleared with a Volvo scanner. See the instructions in the previous section on resetting the Volvo airbag light.
5. Seat Occupant Weight Sensor (OWS)
An occupant weight sensor (OWS) is installed in the passenger seat cushion. It detects the weight of the passenger on the front seat. A passenger seat sensor is sometimes the culprit. Another frequent problem is that the wires under the seat connecting to the passenger OWS sensor get damaged or unplugged. Inspect the yellow connector under the passenger seat.
6. Seat belt buckle
The seat belt buckle has a small sensor that detects whether you are using the seat belt. If the wires to the seat belt sensor (nothing more than a micro-switch) get disconnected, you will get a fault code that points to an open circuit to the seat belt buckle. You can use a multimeter to test the switches in the seat belt buckle.
7. SRS Module
The supplemental Restraint System (SRS) control module is behind the shifter’s center console. It can fail, especially if exposed to liquid. Not a very common issue.
8. Software Issue
The SRS software may need to be updated. A Volvo dealer can only perform this. Call your Volvo dealer and ask if there is a recall for the airbag module or a software update. Depending on how old your Volvo is, you may get the update free of charge.
9. SIPS Unit
Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) is a passive safety system in Volvo designed to protect against injury in a side collision. Even though it is rare, the SIPS unit can fail and may need to be replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I fail the state inspection with the airbag light on?
It depends on the states. Several states, such as Utah, will not fail you if the airbag light is on. Other states, like Maryland, will pass a safety emission even if the SRS light is on.
Will I fail the state inspection with the airbag light on?
It depends on the states. Several states, such as Utah, will not fail you if the airbag light is on. Other states like Maryland, will pass a safety emission even if the SRS light is on.
Can I clear the Volvo airbag light by disconnecting the battery?
No. Disconnection of the battery will not reset the Volvo airbag light.
Volvo Airbag Codes
There are hundreds of possible fault codes that can trigger Volvo airbag lights and warnings to come up.
Here are a few common Volvo airbag fault codes:
- CEM-2FA2 or SRS-00D0 means the driver seat belt buckle is defective. It may be a loose wire or a switch in the buckle.
- CEM 2FA5 or SRS 00D1 Means the passenger seat belt buckle is defective.
- SRS-0165 Rear left side impact sensor
- SRS-010F Control module
- SRS-010D Control module
- SRS-0210 Front right front impact sensor
- SRS-0220 CAN signal
- SRS-0231 Switch for the passenger airbag
- SRS-0250 Occupant weight sensor (OWS)
- SRS-B000112 Driver Frontal Stage 1 Deployment Control. General Electrical Failures. Circuit short to battery
- SRS-B00211B Left Curtain Deployment Control 1. General Electrical Failures. Circuit resistance above the threshold
- SRS-DD00 Control module communication
This article applies to all Volvo models, including XC70, V70, S60, S40, V40, V50, XC60, XC90, S60, S70, S80, and C30.
We hope you find the Troubleshooting Volvo SRS Airbag Light Stays On guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Volvo.
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