bts997

Hello again,
now that my cooling fans are working thanks to a replacement Final Stage Module from DC, I'm on to the next gremlin...

I have an Airbag Malfunction Message and lights on the dash - is there any effective way of dealing with this short of pulling the diagnosticcodes? This situation started out of the blue.
Are the choices at present either Durametric(insists they can now read and erase airbag codes) or Theo's UDT999? Any other options? Schwaben/Foxwell or does it likely not work? I ask because it would be nifty to have a tool that serviced multiple vehicles for under a grand (BMW, GM, Mazda, etc.)
I already have a durametric OBD cable for a later P-car, so that would also be useful if it works. All I'd need is the 19 pin adapter.
I searched the internet and the factory manual from Jim and it is very vague.

Best,
Byron

Michael Benno

I have been able to reset m airbag malfunction light sevaral times using Durametric on my 1992. If you already have that, I would start there and get one of these adapter cables. It's work for me.

esharon

Hi @bts997 - I'm in the same boat as you (Airbag malfunction started popping up 2nd drive after receiving the car). Looking to figure out cause of error as well as whether it is something I can reliably address as I'm not sure about 30 year old Airbag Cartridges/safety. Thoughts?

I was looking at the Duramatic vs http://www.928-ecu-repair.com/diagnosetools_udt999.html and decided on the latter. I'm waiting for Paul to manufacture his next batch. Until then, hitting the steering column stalk to clear the message (sigh)...

bts997

Well, my 1988 Mercedes 560SL says to replace the airbags every 10 years and they are NLA, so what to do? Can't replace. So, remove, replace with used, or live in fear of them either exploding randomly or not doing their job in a crash (same as used). I have no idea as to which is more likely but the few dealer techs I've spoken to say that they don't worry about it and haven't had to deal with it. Not sure that's scientific or statistically valid, but it is what we have to deal with. Know that you may not be protected, as is the case with any older car. Sigh. My personal guess is that, if they fail, they will do nothing to protect you, over the seatbelt.

Bilal928S4

From what I have heard./read, the most likely culprit for the airbag light coming on is the wire connected to the body. It is located under the dash just above the driver side hood release.
HTH