How to Reset the Airbag Light for My Pontiac Vibe
by James T Wood
The Pontiac Vibe is mechanically identical to the Toyota Matrix, including the airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS). The SRS light may come on for several reasons, such as if the electrical system has had a change in voltage, if there is a malfunction in the SRS or if the diagnostic troubleshooting code (DTC) system registers an error. Unfortunately, the light may not go off, even after the error has been fixed, so the light itself will need to be reset.
Step 1
Open the hood of the car and locate the battery.
Step 2
Loosen the bolt holding the negative (black) battery cable to the battery terminal. Remove the negative battery cable and wait for 90 seconds.
Step 3
Reattach the negative battery cable. Tighten the bolt. Close the hood and start the car. After six seconds the SRS light should go off. If it does not go off, or if it flashes, this indicates an error in the SRS that needs to be repaired. Take your Vibe to a mechanic with a computer that can read the DTC and determine the specific error so your SRS can be repaired.
References
- Toyota Matrix Repair Manual (pg. RS174-7) Toyota Technical Publications, Copyright 2007
- Chicago Tribune: Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix Recall
Things You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench
Warnings
- Do not disconnect the SRS light or drive with a malfunctioning system. It is potentially life-threatening to operate your Vibe without the SRS functioning correctly.
Writer Bio
James T Wood is a teacher, blogger and author. Since 2009 he has published two books and numerous articles, both online and in print. His work experience has spanned the computer world, from sales and support to training and repair. He is also an accomplished public speaker and PowerPoint presenter.
