What Does the Airbag Light Flashing Tell Nissan’s Owners?

Have you ever noticed the airbag light in your Nissan flashing? 

It’s not something to overlook. 

Your safety on the road depends on the proper functioning of your vehicle’s airbag system. That’s why understanding the significance of the airbag light and taking immediate action is so important.

In this article, we’ll explore what the airbag light means, why it might start flashing, and how to reset it.

Let’s dive in!

What Does Airbag Light In Nissan Mean?

The airbag light in a Nissan serves as a warning indicator to alert the driver to a potential issue with the vehicle’s airbag system. 

When you start your Nissan, the airbag light should briefly illuminate along with other dashboard warning lights as part of a system check. This is a normal operation, and the light should turn off within a few seconds once the system verifies that everything is functioning correctly. 

If the light remains on after this initial check, it indicates a problem.

In some cases, the airbag light may not only stay illuminated but also flash. A flashing airbag light usually indicates a more severe issue within the airbag system that requires immediate attention. It often points to a fault that could prevent the airbags from deploying if needed.

To ensure your safety and that of your passengers, it’s essential to have the issue diagnosed and repaired by a qualified technician as soon as possible.

Why Is My Airbag Light Flashing?

The airbag light in your Nissan can flash for several reasons, each indicating a potential issue with your airbag system.

So, let’s dive into the nuts and bolts as to why your airbag light has gone into this panic mode.

Faulty Airbag Sensors

A malfunctioning airbag sensor is one of the most common causes of an airbag light flashing in a Nissan. Airbag sensors are designed to detect sudden deceleration or impacts and trigger the deployment of airbags to protect passengers. 

If these sensors malfunction or become damaged, the airbag light may flash.

Solution: The OBD2 scanner can analyze the error code to identify the defective sensor. The faulty sensor is then replaced and reset to delete the error. 

Depleted Airbag Backup Battery

Airbag systems often have a backup battery to ensure they can still function even if the primary power source is compromised in an accident. If this backup battery is depleted, the airbag light may flash.

Solution: Recharge or replace the backup battery and reset the crash sensors, as they don’t automatically reset.

Damaged Airbag Clock Spring

The clock spring is an electrical connection located within the steering column that allows for the rotation of the steering wheel while maintaining connectivity with the airbag system. 

If the clock spring is damaged or worn out, it can disrupt the communication between the airbag system components, causing the blinking airbag light.

Solution: Replace the damaged clock spring with professional help.

Wet Airbag Module

The airbag module, typically located beneath the driver’s seat, is susceptible to short circuits or corrosion caused by water damage. 

Normally, the module should maintain a resistance level of around 5 ohms. However, when a short circuit or corrosion occurs, the resistance increases, triggering the airbag light to flash.

Solution: Seek assistance from a mechanic promptly to inspect and address the issue, as a short circuit may potentially affect other electrical components in the vehicle.

Broken Wires

The airbag system relies on a network of electrical wires to communicate and trigger the deployment of airbags when necessary. 

If any of these wires break or become damaged, it can lead to a malfunction in the system, causing the airbag light to flash.

Solution: Repair or replace damaged wires with professional expertise.

Faulty Plug Connector

When adjusting the front seats by moving them forward or backward, the plug connectors underneath them can shift, resulting in a weak or poor connection. These poor connections can disrupt communication between the crash sensors and the ECU, causing the airbag light in your Nissan to flash as it signals an error.

Solution: Remove the plugs, and spray their terminals with electrical cleaner before plugging them back.

Is It Safe to Drive with Airbag Light On?

No. It is unsafe to drive while the airbag light sign keeps flashing in your instrument cluster. The airbag control unit is designed not to deploy the airbags when there is a malfunction for your safety. You will become susceptible to injury if the airbag accidentally explodes in your face while driving, yet an accident has not occurred.

Moreover, the destruction caused by the exploding airbags may result in you getting into another accident that might be fatal.

Secondly, in case an accident occurs, and the airbags are unable to deploy, it is without a doubt that you will have a bumpy stop. Your body will suffer severe injuries from absorbing the accident’s impact. 

So, whenever you have the airbag lights flashing on your dashboard, rush to the nearest repair shop to have your car checked or reset it if it is a false alarm. 

How to Reset the Airbag Light On a Nissan?

Resetting the airbag light on a Nissan should only be done after addressing and resolving the underlying issue that triggered the light in the first place. Here’s a general procedure for resetting the airbag light:

• Start your ignition system by turning the key to the ON position, ensuring that you do not crank the engine. The airbag lights will stay on before they begin to flicker. 
• Switch the ignition system to OFF as soon as the light goes off and withdraw your key before the lights start flashing again. 
• Turn the ignition ON after 5 seconds.
• Repeat the first and second steps at least three times. Notice that you will have a different blinking pattern after your last move.
• See if the airbag light sign lights up briefly before going OFF for good. 

If the light persists or the blinking continues, repeat the steps for better results. Remember, resetting the light should only be done after addressing the root cause and ensuring your airbag system is in top-notch condition.

What’s Next?

The flashing airbag light in your Nissan indicates a potential issue within the airbag system that requires immediate attention.

By understanding the significance of the warning indicator and promptly addressing any underlying issues, you can ensure the proper functioning of your vehicle’s airbag system.

If you’re looking to identify the root cause of the problem, consider acquiring an OBD2 scanner. These devices are invaluable for diagnosing and isolating the exact issue responsible for the airbag light, enabling you to carry out precise and efficient repairs.