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Airbag light problem

I have an 01 LW300, where SOMETIMES the red Air Bag light goes on and stays on, usually with the yellow Service light. It is an intermittant problem, when it goes on it stays on until the engine is off. Then next time, it might not go on again, nor again for the next few trips.

Anyway, today Saturn told me I needed a new "Body Control Module" (main computer) and that it would cost about $400.

The car works fine, light on or off. Anyone have a similar problem? Did you go for the new Body Control Module, or did you get a used/salvage one? I'm not in a position to pay $400. at this point. Thanks, Gabe

Reply to
Gabe
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Reply to
jdoe

Were you able to have the codes read out? This may give some more information. I have the same model and the only major problem was that during the 90 day used car warranty, I noticed the ABS and TRAC lights did not come on for test during engine starting. Brought it to dealer and they replaced the BCM (Body Control Module) under warranty. Part of the service was 're-flash BCM' so I assume that a used one may not work. I think that all the modules are electronically keyed too. If you have a good relation with a dealer service, they might re-flash a used module for you ;-) BCM is mounted on top of the glove box. Passive restraint module (airbag control) is under the rear of the center console.

Reply to
Oppie

Forgot to mention that the airbag circuits are yellow wires. Any service that might cause airbag deployment should disable them first.

*Disclaimer* this is from memory remove IGN1 fuse from under hood fuse block. put steering wheels in straight ahead position. Remove cover under dash (under steerring wheel). Disconnect two (2)- 2 circuit connectors with yellow wires (these are the ones that directly fire the airbag squibs) Airbags are now disabled for service.

Reverse order to reconnect.

Note that airbag module can trigger the airbags for up to a minute after the IGN1 fuse is disconnected. Wait at least this long before touching anything else. (unless you like to hear loud 'POOF's and putting your steering wheel and dashboard back together with duct tape)

Reply to
Oppie

Check your battery. Dying battery (or alternator) and also corroded contacts may cause different error codes in the control module during the heavy load.

Reply to
Michal

Thanks, Jdoe, but that was the first thing I asked, and Saturn told me no, the fact that the problem has been traced to the Body Control Module means that my air bag IS working, and will properly deploy. They said it clearly was NOT a problem with the airbag, which they were somehow able to isolate in their testing. My airbag is functioning properly. So to answer the legalistic issues you are raising, I have the full name of the Saturn technician as well as a printout documenting yes, I need a new BCM, but no, I am not driving in danger of its deployment or nondeployment. Of course, my life is worth more than all the legality in the world, so I will get the BCM replaced. Thanks all for your suggestions. I will check out my battery and its connections. Gabe

Reply to
Gabe

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