SRS light on 2003 forester

SRS lights come on for a variety of reasons, and there's usually an error code that gives an idea of the cause. Might be the driver or the passenger airbag that's has some sort of issue. Sometimes the SRS lights up because the SRS controller has failed (rare), other times it decides that the airbag is not being detected. COMMONLY but not always the SRS light can be reset by disconnecting the battery for 30+ seconds. Undeployed airbags themselves rarely fail: its usually a harness connection / mechanical problem or controller.

SRS systems have to be handled with care. The harness has special anti-static connectors which MUST be shorted together if the harness is disassembled, as a static discharge can cause the bag to deploy (this is Not a Good Thing). There's also a clock spring in the steering wheel that can be finicky.

The best advice to you is a) try disconnecting the battery; b) Look for any fuses that have blown. Is anything else not working? c) look in the owners manual for any info on clearing SRS error codes. d) take it to the dealer and at least get the SRS error code read.

Reading and resetting the error code take a couple of minutes max: don't get screwed for labour on this: maybe offer 15 minutes if they won't do it for free. After all, if there is a real problem you'll likely have to have the dealer fix it anyway. There are also companies who claim to repair computers eg

but you have to able to take yours out without breaking or exploding anything. A repaired computer will be lots cheaper than a new one from the dealer.

There is I believe a LOT of car owners who get an SRS light, get a huge quote for the repair, and decide that the best option is to take out the SRS lamp and rely on the seat belt.

SD

You should be able to get any codes pulled at an Autozone or other chain-type parts store. I know Autozone does it for free and gives you a printout showing possible fixes.

Dan D '99 Impreza 2.5 RS (son's) Central NJ USA