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If you see the airbag malfunctioning light illuminating in your Volkswagen, it is important to take immediate action to address the issue. This light is a warning that there is a problem with the airbag system in your vehicle, which could affect the performance of the airbags in the event of a crash. If you ignore this warning and continue to drive your vehicle, you could be putting yourself and your passengers at risk.
The Importance of Your Airbag
Airbags are designed to deploy in a fraction of a second, for maximum safety during a car crash. They rapidly inflate to form a cushion that prevents the driver or passengers from hitting against the dashboard or steering wheel.
When the airbag deploys due to the impact of a collision, it releases tiny harmless particles of sodium azide gas that fill the airbag with air and enable it to reach its full size before hitting a person. All airbags have an internal sensor that measures the level of acceleration and pressure. If these levels go over certain thresholds then the airbag is deployed automatically, providing invaluable protection for vehicle occupants in emergency situations.
It is important to note that if the airbag malfunctioning light is illuminated, the airbags in your vehicle may not deploy properly in the event of a crash. This could increase the risk of injury to you and your passengers. It is essential that you do not ignore this warning and take immediate action to address the issue.
Is it the sensor or the airbag?
If you notice that the airbag light is on, check your owner’s manual for information on the airbag system and the malfunctioning light. The airbag light may be on because there is no passenger to trigger the sensor, telling it there is a person in the seat. Ensure you know what your lights mean and when they are not working properly. An airbag malfunction light will be on even when a passenger is sitting in the seat.
Your owner’s manual should provide guidance on what to do next, including any specific instructions for addressing the issue. However, you should contact our qualified mechanic as soon as possible, as we will be able to diagnose the problem and determine the best course of action to ensure your airbag is functioning properly. It may be the sensor, or the airbag itself. Both need to be repaired but the course of action is different in each case.
What causes an airbag to break down?
The airbag malfunctioning light may be caused by a problem with the sensor or wiring in the airbag system. In these cases, the issue can often be resolved by replacing the faulty component.
If the airbag malfunctioning light is illuminated due to a problem with the airbags themselves, however, the issue may be more complex and may require more extensive repairs. In these cases, the airbags may need to be replaced to ensure the system is functioning properly.
Regardless of the cause of the malfunctioning light, it is essential that you do not ignore the warning and take immediate action to address the issue. Failing to do so could put you and your passengers at risk in the event of a crash.
Hayes European
If you see the airbag malfunctioning light illuminating 
in your Volkswagen, it is important to take immediate action to address the issue. Pull over to a safe location, consult your owner’s manual, and contact our mechanics at Hayes European as soon as you can. Do not ignore this warning and take the necessary steps to ensure that the airbag system in your vehicle is functioning properly.
We welcome you to visit us in person to speak with our staff regarding this issue or anything that concerns you about your Volkswagen. We also love VWs and enjoy ensuring that you are confident and safe when driving on our California roads. Visit us from nearby Santa Cruz, Aptos, Soquel, and Capitola, CA! Allow us to earn your repeat business by visiting us today for service or maintenance of your Volkswagen model or any European car, Sprinter van, or SUV.