What Causes the Airbag Malfunction Light to Illuminate in a Volkswagen
When the airbag malfunction light illuminates in your Volkswagen, it can be a sign that this system is not going to work properly in the event of a collision. This is the last thing you want to deal with if you are in an unexpected and dangerous car accident. So, getting your airbag malfunction light looked at your Volkswagen is best done sooner rather than later.
Whether your airbags are deactivated or your battery has depleted the backup for the airbags, there are several reasons why the malfunction light could be illuminated in your Volkswagen. Unfortunately, it’s almost impossible to figure this out on your own. So, you’ll want help from an experienced and trained technician, like those at Oldwick Village Garage.
Causes of Airbag Malfunction Light Illumination in a VW
There are a handful of reasons why your Volkswagen’s airbag malfunction light may illuminate. Check these out below:
- Backup battery for the airbag has been depleted: When your Volkswagen’s battery has been recently drained or gone dead, it can cause the backup battery that powers your airbags to go dead, too. When your battery is fully charged again, this may correct itself. In some cases, though, your airbag backup battery may need to be reset.
- Faulty airbag sensors: There are many sensors in your vehicle that are linked to a variety of components. Any one issue can affect your Volkswagen’s computer system and can cause the airbag malfunction light to illuminate at any time. Sensors should be checked in this situation and reset, if necessary.
- Damage to the airbag clock spring: Maintaining a connection between the electrical wiring and driver’s side airbag of your Volkswagen, the clock spring coils in and out as the steering wheel is turned. Over time, this part can become worn out and cause reduced connections and airbag failure.
- Water damage to the airbag module: Water damage can wreak havoc on a vehicle, especially in its airbag sensors. In fact, it can cause electrical connections to short out or become corroded.
Troubleshooting the Airbag Warning Light in Your Volkswagen
Before you commit to taking your vehicle into a repair shop, there are a few quick troubleshooting maneuvers you can try. If you are uncomfortable performing these, bring your car to us for help.
Clearing the ECU
To determine if your airbag malfunction light in your Volkswagen is legitimate, you can try clearing the ECU and seeing if the light comes back on. You don’t want to do this too many times, as it could result in overlooking a more serious issue. Some VW owners won’t have the knowledge to perform this task, but if you do, it is a great place to start.
Avoid Driving Your Volkswagen
If you’re seriously concerned that the airbag malfunction light in your Volkswagen is correct, then you should avoid driving your vehicle at all costs. In the event of an accident, your airbags likely would not deploy as they should, which can be detrimental to the health and well-being of you and your passengers.
Visit Your Local Mechanic at Oldwick Village Garage
Many instances call for professional help in determining the cause of your airbag malfunction light illumination in a Volkswagen model. 
When this is your concern, bring your Volkswagen into our professionals at Oldwick Village Garage. Featuring factory-level service and repair, we provide quality Volkswagen repair at a fraction of the cost and significantly shorter wait times.
At Oldwick Village Garage, we want our customers to be just as involved in their vehicle’s service as we are. That’s why we take customer satisfaction seriously. Our customers in and around the Tewksbury, NJ area will attest to that. Also, we take the repair of safety features as a priority above all else. So, when your Volkswagen’s airbag malfunction light illuminates, we’ll find out why and correct the problem.
When you’re in need to top-notch service for your Volkswagen, give us a call at Oldwick Village Garage in Tewksbury, NJ today at (908) 439-2236. We’ll resolve any issues you may be experiencing in a quick and affordable manner, and our pleasant sales staff will lead you through the process with confidence. Reach out to us today!