Testing airbags?

[Joss]

My Z3 has been off the road too long now, I need to get the airbag fault sorted.

I know from reading that connecting a multimeter to an airbag to test it's resistance would more than likely ruin my day/car/hands etc.

I'm not sure how the built in self diagnosis system works, but could I unplug various elements and plug them back in one by one to find the parts that are defective? or will the absence of a component cause a warning to be triggered?

It would be a real shame to have to write off a car because of a minor electrical glitch?

Thanks

 

[Oddly Godly]

Have you put a code reader on it. May shed some light on the fault.

 

[andyglym]

As said, pop a code reader on to see what's what. Alternatively, just unclip all the electrical connections under the seat, spray with contact cleaner and put back together, that resolved my airbag light issue.

 

[Jack Ratt]

There are a few reasons for the airbag light to be on, most are easily solved. You need to get the diagnostic codes read.
@Nodzed is in Gloucestershire I believe so probably not far from you and he has diagnostic equipment.

 

[colb]

Do not disconnect any of the airbag modules with the battery connected then be swiytching the ignition on it will set all sorts of codes. Always disconnect the battery before working on any of the airbag system.
As you already have the airbag light on there will be code(s) set so plugging in a diagnostic code reader that can see and talk to the airbag module will lead you to whats at fault. As said before common issue are loose or dirty connections under the seat usually caused when the seat is adjusted and the wires get snagged or even damaged.
Creator 310+ Scanner should read yours, @Nodzed has one, he is in Lydney so pm him and see if he can assist.

 

[Broad Ambition]

Airbag Testing?

Just checked mine and she says she is fine apparently

Griff

 

[the Nefyn cat]

Airbag Testing?

Just checked mine and she says she is fine apparently

Griff

Ah, there it is.

 

[Joss]

Hi again - thanks for the responses, just for clarification the car is currently in North Devon, so I can only get to it every now and then, I've plugged it into a diagnostic device which gave me
06 Side airbag, front right
81 Sensor for side airbag, left

I've looked at the drivers door airbag, I can't see anything obvious.

On the passenger side I have replaced the pretensioner, cleaned all the seat contacts, dried all the carpet out under the seat and replaced the green sensor.

The codes seem to give me a rough area to look at - but nothing specific - do I just keep replacing bits? Or has someone had these codes before?

Thanks