How to Reset Service Airbag on a GMC Sierra?

A functional airbag system is critical to the safe operation of your vehicle. If an airbag service warning light appears or you keep a close eye on your GMC Sierra service schedule, you might have concerns about whether it’s okay to keep driving. Read on to learn about your airbag service warning indicator, including how to check what might be causing the warning, what the service airbag means, the steps you can take to try and reset it yourself, and how Meadowland GMC can help if all else fails.

What Is the Service Airbag Warning?

The service airbag warning light is an indicator that there is a fault in your SRS (supplement restraint system). The SRS, your airbag system, works along with your seatbelt system to help keep you safe in the event of a collision. The service airbag warning light illuminates to let you know that the system may not function properly. This could be dangerous in the event of an accident because it means that your airbag might not deploy.

Why Might You Need to Reset the Service Airbag Warning?

Typically, the airbag light will illuminate when you start your vehicle. This is part of a general systems check. The light should go off again after being lit for around 5-7 seconds. If the light stays illuminated or flashes, there may be a problem with your airbag system. The airbag warning light is supposed to illuminate if the airbag has been deployed or the vehicle has been in an accident. The light will remain illuminated if your airbag has been deployed without being reset.

However, if your airbag hasn’t been deployed, there might be other reasons why the service airbag warning light comes on. You might want to try resetting the warning after attempting a few simple solutions to see if it solves the problem. A primary defect in the airbag itself isn’t common. More likely, you’ll find a problem with other components, such as a sensor or your seatbelts.

How to Reset the Service Airbag Light on the GMC Sierra

You can try following the steps below on how to reset your service airbag light. If none of the steps below fixes your GMC Sierra service problem, or if you want someone to look at it for you, we’re happy to help. It’s a good idea to refer to your owner’s manual as you go through these steps.

Turn Your Ignition On and Off Again

Turn on the ignition switch without starting the engine. After doing so, the airbag light should come on. After seven seconds, the light should then turn off. When this happens, turn off the ignition. Wait three seconds, and then repeat the process once or twice again. Finally, start the engine. This may clear the problem, and your service airbag light will remain off.

Drive Your Vehicle

Sometimes, driving for a few minutes can help clear the warning. Around 3-5 minutes should be enough. This can give the passenger seat sensors time to cycle and for your systems to power on. Sometimes the airbag service indicator will clear after this.

Check the Passenger Air Bag Switch

Your GMC Sierra may have a passenger airbag on-off switch. If it does, the switch should be in your glove box. If you find that the button has accidentally been turned off, you can try switching it on.

Check Your Passenger Weight Sensor

If your vehicle senses weight, such as a box or bag, in the passenger seat, it might think that someone is sitting in that seat. If you take the heavy object off the seat, the problem should resolve. Alternatively, you can buckle the seat belt in that seat. If no object is in the seat, but buckling the passenger-side seat belt still fixes your problem, the sensor might be defective.

Check Your Seatbelts

If one of your seat belts has a problem, this could trigger an air bag warning. While your car is running, try clicking each seat belt into place and releasing it by pressing the seat belt button. If something is obstructing your seat belt fastener, or if it can’t latch securely, this might cause your problem.

Consider Using an OBD-II Scanner for More Details

At this point, it may be time to have your vehicle serviced by a mechanic. However, another option is to get more detailed information about your persistent airbag light. You can choose to buy a second-generation onboard diagnostic scanner, known as OBD-II. When purchasing your scanner, it’s important to check that it has the appropriate SRS capability because not all scanners will be able to interface with your airbag system. This tool can read or even reset vehicle trouble codes.

Under your steering wheel, find your diagnostic link connector and connect the scanner. After you run a scan, you can look at the code or codes on the screen to get more details about the problem. You should repair any issues before resetting the airbag light because simply resetting the light doesn’t fix whatever caused it to come on in the first place. Depending on your level of mechanical skill, you may attempt further repairs on your own or have your vehicle repaired professionally.

Have Your Vehicle Serviced by a Mechanic

A professional mechanic, such as the ones at Meadowland GMC, can identify the problem causing your airbag light to stay illuminated. After a checkup, they can recommend and perform any necessary repairs or replacements. These repairs may include replacing the airbag clock spring, sensors, airbag system control unit, or airbag backup battery.

If you have any problems with your airbag, we’ll be happy to help. Just Book a service appointment using our convenient online form, or visit our dealership in Meadowland for assistance. You’ll find us at 1952 Route 6 in Carmel, New York. If your airbag is deployed because of an accident, our collision center is ready to help you get safely back on the road.

Photo Credit: Image by Bryan Boatright is licensed with Unsplash License

Tags: GMC Sierra Service, Service, Service Tips
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