This tool provides general guidance — not professional mechanical advice. Always have a qualified mechanic inspect your vehicle before making any repair decisions.
#1 Most Likely
Airbag or SRS warning light
Typical Cost
$100 – $1,000
Clockspring replacement typically costs $200–$600. Airbag sensor replacement may cost $100–$400. NEEDS_SOURCE — verify against published repair data. Urgency reflects worst-case cause (airbag non-deployment in a crash, or unexpected deployment). Prices vary significantly by vehicle make and model.
Wide range because the exact repair depends on what's causing the symptom.
- Failed clockspring (spiral cable) in the steering column
- Disconnected or faulty airbag impact sensor
- Deployed seatbelt pretensioner not replaced after a minor collision
- Water intrusion damaging an under-seat airbag control module
- Airbag control module fault
An airbag or SRS (supplemental restraint system) warning light indicates the airbag system has detected a fault. When this light is on, the airbags may not deploy in a collision — or may deploy unexpectedly. Either outcome represents a safety risk. Common triggers include a failed clockspring (the spiral cable behind the steering wheel), a disconnected airbag sensor, or a fault in the airbag control module.
What a mechanic will check
A mechanic will likely scan for SRS fault codes to identify the specific component or circuit with the fault. Common inspection points include the clockspring, seat belt pretensioners, impact sensors at the front and sides of the vehicle, and wiring connector integrity under the seats.
What to say to your mechanic
“My airbag warning light is on. Can you scan for SRS fault codes and inspect my clockspring and airbag sensors to tell me what component may have triggered the light? I want to understand what may need to be repaired to get the airbag system working properly again.”
Script based on industry repair procedures