i40 Active Hood Fault

The symptoms you describe strongly suggest a problem within the active hood system, and you're right, the acceleration sensor is a likely culprit. The active hood system is designed to pop the hood up slightly in a pedestrian collision. A faulty acceleration sensor could trigger the system erroneously, leading to the error message, airbag light, and the deployment of the spring actuators. Have you checked the wiring and connections to the acceleration sensor itself? Sometimes a loose or corroded connection can cause these kinds of issues.

Thanks for the info! I haven't checked the wiring specifically. Where exactly is the acceleration sensor located? I'm not sure where to start looking.

The acceleration sensor is typically located near the front of the vehicle, often behind the bumper or near the radiator support. Given the complexity of the active hood system and the fact that the actuators have already deployed, I'd strongly recommend taking it to a workshop. Messing with airbag or pedestrian safety systems can be risky if you don't have the right tools and expertise. They will likely confirm the sensor issue and can safely replace the deployed actuators. It will save you from a headache, and potentially more expensive problems.

I appreciate the advice. Took it to the shop; you were spot on. It was indeed the acceleration sensor. Got it sorted, including the actuator reset, for 315€. Glad that's over with!