There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument panel cluster, which shows the airbag symbol. The system checks the airbag's electrical system for malfunctions. The light indicates if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the airbag sensor, the pretensioners, the airbag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the airbag system, see Airbag System.

This light comes on when the vehicle is started, and flashes for a few seconds. The light goes out when the system is ready.

If the airbag readiness light stays on after the vehicle is started or comes on while driving, the airbag system may not work properly. Have the vehicle serviced right away.

Caution: If the airbag readiness light stays on after the vehicle is started or comes on while driving, it means the airbag system might not be working properly. The airbags in the vehicle might not inflate in a crash, or they could even inflate without a crash. To help avoid injury, have the vehicle serviced right away.

The airbag readiness light should flash for a few seconds when the engine is started. If the light does not come on then, have it fixed immediately. If there is a problem with the airbag system, an airbag Driver Information Center (DIC) message may also come on. See DIC Warnings and Messagesfor more information.