Understanding And Addressing Volkswagen Airbag Malfunctions In Powell

Suspect a glitch in your Volkswagen’s airbag system?

Modern cars have gotten much safer to drive due to inclusion of features like airbag deployment system. As per a report published by NHTSA, frontal airbags have saved approximately 50,457 lives between 1987 and 2017. Since the invention of this life saving technology automotive safety has significantly increased… We understand how important the airbag system is for the safety of a vehicle’s occupant. This concern has prompted our latest blog, highlighting the leading reasons behind airbag system failures in Volkswagen cars.

Discussing Leading Reasons

The airbag deployment system in a vehicle consists of a network of parts- including impact sensors, electronics, and a control module. Based on the real-time inputs received from sensors, the control module decides if it is the right time for airbag deployment. A glitch in one of these components can render your vehicle’s airbag system useless. Below is a list of things that can make your Volkswagen’s airbag system nonfunctional.

#1- Defective sensor

By providing the control module with essential information such as severity of the impact during a crash, impact sensors play a crucial role in the overall airbag deployment process. Defective impact sensors may provide inaccurate data; contributing to delayed airbag deployment. This is something that can endanger occupant’s safety. There can be many reasons why a vehicle’s impact sensors may malfunction; ranging from contamination to electromagnetic interference.

#2- Electrical issues

The airbag deployment system of a vehicle consists of an array of different electrical parts. If power supply to one of these electrical parts gets obstructed, the system will not function properly. Corroded connectors, bad wiring, blown fuses, and defective relays are some of the leading reasons why your Volkswagen’s airbag deployment system parts may not receive the required electric power to perform their intended functions.

#3- Manufacturing defect

This is yet another possibility… Use of defective material or erroneous design can have an adverse impact on a vehicle’s airbag deployment system functionality. If subpar or defective components are being used by factory workers, airbag deployment system along with other Supplemental Restraint System features of the vehicle, may behave erratically.

Signs To Look For

#1- Illuminated airbag warning light

If your Volkswagen’s airbag warning light is on, it is a sign of trouble and should not be taken for granted. This light usually comes on when the onboard diagnostic system finds an anomaly in one of key components of the vehicle’s airbag system. It could be anything from an electrical glitch to sensor failure. It is not safe to drive a vehicle when its airbag warning light is on. Reach out to a technician to have your Volkswagen’s SRS features checked and reset the light.

#2- Airbag system acting strangely

Spontaneous deployment of airbag without a collision is yet another telltale sign of a malfunction in the vehicle’s airbag deployment system. There can be many reasons why a vehicle might display such a strange behavior. A potential reason is that one of its impact sensors is not functioning correctly. Mechanical deformities and electrical issues in components responsible for the deployment of airbag can also contribute to such an anomaly.

#3- Odd noises

If there is something off with your Volkswagen’s airbag deployment system, strange noises will emerge from its steering wheel region. Timely deployment of airbag system involves combined effort of a network of parts. If one of these parts malfunctions, a strange noise may emerge- to be specific from the steering wheel. Pay attention to any such odd noises and call your mechanic if you feel something unusual about your vehicle’s steering system.

Seek Professional Help

If your gut tells you that there is something off with your Volkswagen’s airbag deployment system, don’t take it lightly. Visit the nearest auto service center to have your vehicle’s airbag system checked by certified professionals. If there is indeed a glitch, get it fixed ASAP.

Here’s How Auto Assets Can Help

If you are in Powell, Ohio, area and looking for a reliable service center to get your Volkswagen’s airbag deployment system inspected, you are in luck. Visit our service center to have your vehicle’s SRS assessed by our factory trained technicians. At Auto Assets we have all necessary resources required to get your Volkswagen back on track. Call us or visit our website to book an appointment today!

* Woman Driving Volkswagen Car image credit goes to: Olga Chetvergova.