Audi SQ5 SRS Light Mystery Sparks Safety Concerns

I own a 2015 Audi S4 and had a similar issue with the restraint system warning light. With some experience working on Audis, I can tell you these SRS light issues are fairly common in this model range. In my case, the airbag sensor system was showing a fault due to a loose wiring connection under the driver seat. The workshop diagnosed the issue using their diagnostic tool and found the cable or plug connection was defective. The repair involved reconnecting and securing the wiring harness properly. Total cost was 95 Euro for diagnostics and repair. For proper diagnosis of your car safety system, could you share: Have you had any recent work done near the seats or center console? Did you notice the SRS light coming on after hitting a particularly deep pothole? Are there any other warning lights illuminated? Has the vehicle been scanned for fault codes? The crash sensor connections in these models can sometimes work loose over time, but its best to have it properly diagnosed since the airbag system is a critical safety component. Would definitely recommend getting it checked soon as driving with a faulty SRS system could be dangerous.

Thanks for the helpful response. Just had my last service at 143000km and no work was done near the seats or console. The SRS light appeared without hitting any potholes or other incidents. The vehicle safety warning is the only light showing on the dash. I did get it scanned at a local shop and they found code B101513 related to the airbag sensor on the passenger side. Based on your experience, I will have this properly diagnosed at a workshop since the restraint system is critical for safety. Good to know a loose connection could be the culprit rather than a complete sensor failure.

Since you mentioned a specific fault code for the passenger airbag sensor, that definitely narrows down the issue. On my S4, I had additional fault codes appear after the initial B101513, which helped identify it was indeed just the wiring connection and not the sensor itself failing. The automotive safety systems in these Audis are quite robust, but the wiring connectors can develop issues over time. While my problem was under the driver seat, the passenger side connections are actually more exposed to potential issues due to movement of the seat and people getting in and out. A proper diagnosis by a workshop that understands these restraint system components is crucial. In my follow-up maintenance, they also did a full check of all airbag deployment sensors as a precaution. The total diagnostic time was about an hour. If it is just a connection issue like mine, you should expect repair costs between 100-200 Euro. However, if the airbag sensor itself needs replacement, costs typically run 400-600 Euro including labor. These estimates are based on when I researched solutions for my own airbag recall concerns.

Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences. This has given me a much clearer picture of what to expect with my SRS light issue. I have scheduled an appointment with a certified workshop for next week to properly diagnose the restraint system warning. The fact that the airbag sensor shows a specific fault code B101513 makes me feel a bit better knowing its likely localized to the passenger side. Hoping its just a loose connection that can be fixed without major airbag repair work, but at least I now have a realistic idea of potential costs, whether its 200 Euro for wiring fixes or up to 600 Euro if the sensor needs replacement. Will make sure they do a complete check of all airbag deployment points while they have it in. Safety comes first with these systems, so better to get it properly fixed rather than trying cheaper alternatives. I appreciate all the detailed information about common issues with these particular models.