Can a Car Pass Inspection with the Airbag Light On?: 1 Minute to Understand Inspection Requirements for Airbags

The airbag light, also known as the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) warning light, signals a potential issue within your vehicle's airbag system. Whether or not your car can pass inspection with the airbag light illuminated depends largely on local regulations, but in many U.S. states and regions, a lit airbag light is considered a safety issue. The purpose of the inspection is to ensure your vehicle is safe for the road, and the airbag system is critical for occupant protection in the event of a collision. If the light is on, it means your airbags may not deploy correctly—or at all—should an accident occur.

In most cases, when the airbag light is on, your car will fail the safety portion of the inspection. Some states may allow it to pass emissions tests since the SRS doesn’t directly impact emissions, but safety checks usually require all critical warning lights (like airbags, ABS, and seatbelt systems) to be off. For drivers in regions with strict inspection protocols, fixing the issue is essential before the vehicle can legally operate on public roads. A certified technician can diagnose the problem using a scan tool to retrieve error codes and outline the repair process.

As a designer, I view car inspections like evaluating a home’s safety features—just as properly installed smoke detectors and fire exits add vital layers of protection in our living spaces, functioning airbags play an essential role in our vehicles. For our living spaces, I always recommend integrating life-safety features into the overall interior design as seamlessly as possible, ensuring form meets function. The same logical approach inspires my view on car safety: making sure key systems are not just compliant but optimal for your safety and comfort.

Tips 1:

If your airbag light is on, don’t ignore it—prompt diagnosis and repair are critical to safeguard both your safety and ensure your vehicle passes inspection the first time.

FAQ

Q: Why does my car’s airbag light stay on?

A: The airbag light may be triggered by sensor failures, damaged wiring, faulty seatbelt latches, or past crash deployments that haven’t been properly reset. A diagnostic scan is needed.

Q: Can a diagnostic tool reset my airbag light?

A: A diagnostic tool can reset the airbag light only after the underlying problem is fixed. Resets alone won’t resolve hardware issues.

Q: Will an airbag light affect emissions inspections?

A: No. The airbag system is unrelated to emissions, so it only impacts safety inspections, not emissions checks.

Q: How expensive is it to fix an airbag system malfunction?

A: Costs vary by vehicle make/model and the specific issue, ranging from under $100 for simple sensor resets to much higher if components need replacement.

Q: Is it safe to drive with the airbag light on?

A: Driving is possible, but it’s unsafe—if the light is on, one or more airbags may not deploy in an accident. Prompt repair is highly recommended.