lenny_flame6
Audi A6 Airbag Warning Light Fix & Repair Guide
Summary of the thread
An Audi A6 owner is experiencing a persistent airbag warning light, indicating a potential issue with the vehicle's safety system. The problem was diagnosed as a faulty crash sensor, possibly due to water damage near the airbag control module. The owner is considering OEM parts for the repair, despite higher costs, to ensure reliability. A comprehensive safety inspection is planned during the repair to address any additional issues, with the total estimated cost being 780 Euro.
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4 comment(s)
lenny_flame6 (community.author)
Last serviced at 83341KM during an annual maintenance check. The faulty crash sensor was diagnosed during a scan with a factory diagnostic tool. My mechanic mentioned possible water damage near the airbag control module connector under the center console. Looking at repair options now since the part alone costs 450 Euro. Any input on aftermarket crash sensors vs OEM parts for the restraint system would be helpful. A complete vehicle safety inspection might make sense while the system is being worked on to rule out other issues. The garage mentioned they could do this during the repair since theyll already have the trim panels removed.
amelieghost5
As I mentioned before about my 2002 A4, I actually faced a similar dilemma with the crash sensor replacement. While my initial problem was just a loose connection, I later had to deal with a faulty sensor too. I initially considered aftermarket parts to save money, but after researching airbag repair options, I went with OEM parts. The crash sensor is too critical for vehicle safety to risk using non-original components. My total repair cost was around 550 Euro including labor, but the peace of mind was worth it. The water damage you mentioned near the control module is a common issue in these models. When my mechanic did the repair, they also applied additional sealant around the connector to prevent future moisture problems. Smart move getting a full safety inspection while the panels are off, it saved me money in the long run when they caught a worn wire harness during my repair. One tip from my experience: make sure they check all the crash sensors while theyre at it. Sometimes when one fails, others might be starting to degrade too. Also, after the repair, ask them to do a complete system scan to ensure the airbag repair was successful and all components are communicating properly. Given your mileage, this is pretty typical timing for these components to need replacement. The control modules usually last about this long before moisture or age-related issues develop.
lenny_flame6 (community.author)
Thanks for the detailed information about the crash sensor. After checking several repair shops, I decided to go with OEM parts for the airbag repair despite the higher cost. Vehicle safety isnt something to compromise on, especially with critical systems like airbags and crash sensors. My mechanic found the water damage was more extensive than initially thought. The total repair estimate including the full safety inspection, new OEM crash sensor, rewiring, and moisture protection is now 780 Euro. They said theyll also check all other SRS components while the system is opened up. Based on the airbag recall notices I researched for my model year, this seems like a reasonable maintenance cost given the age of the car. At least the repair should prevent future water-related issues with the restraint system. Will update once the work is completed next week. Really hoping this resolves the SRS light issue completely.
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AUDI
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A6
amelieghost5
I had a similar issue with my Audi A4 from 2002. Having some experience with airbag repairs, I can share what worked in my case. The SRS light in my speedometer cluster also came on suddenly. After checking with my regular workshop, they found a loose connection in the wiring under the driver seat. The airbag sensor system is quite sensitive to any cable or plug connection issues. The repair was straightforward, they cleaned and reseated the connections, then reset the airbag warning light. Total cost was 95 Euro and took about an hour. Most standard workshops can handle this type of airbag repair if they have the right diagnostic equipment. But before jumping to conclusions, could you share: Have you recently moved or adjusted the seats? Did any work get done under the seats lately? Are there any other warning lights showing? Have you checked if the seat belt pretensioners are working normally? This information would help determine if your issue is similar to what I experienced or if its something else in the restraint system that needs attention. The most important thing with airbag-related issues is getting them checked promptly, its a crucial car safety component and shouldnt be ignored.