Before running to the dealer try this: Turn the ignition on, locate the dome light switch on the door jamb. With the ignition on, push the switch seven times in less than ten sec. Turn off the ign. when you start the car, the light should come on for a few sec. and then shut off. Eric [endpost]
In my case it is a '98 Maxima, same symptoms. The dealer charged $100 to say "there's a fault" (da!) and proposed to charge $800+ to fix it.
Erics 'reset sequence' worked. I'm awestruck. Did he do the coding for the SRS computer or what? Unfortunately, his email handle ( snipped-for-privacy@ix.netcom.com) has expired or I would thank him directly and ship some liquid refreshment.
Im very, very much obliged and I hope this helps other people.
Incidentally, dont bother with the Chilton manual for this topic. It only has a short paragraph and a picture of the warning label.
-D