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If a car is fitted with airbags and the dash warning light stays permanently on, can the system be disconnected including the removal of the warning light?

I would think in some cases the cost of repairing/replacing airbag components could be more than the total value of the car itself.

Ray

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 24 September, 2010

Airbags were a natural progression from seatbelts as way of helping to protect drivers and occupants from injury in the event of an accident. If fitted, they must be in working order however there are exceptions to the rule (read on).

The dash warning light is an indication to the driver that the system is in standby mode and the airbag(s) will deploy in the event of an accident where the driver or other occupants (depending on the number of airbags fitted) are at risk of injury.

If the warning light is illuminated at all times when driving, the airbag(s) will not deploy.

It is a Warrant of Fitness requirement for the warning light to indicate the system is active if airbags are fitted.

Cars can be modified to disable the airbag and warning light but certain conditions must be met.

The only modifications permitted are:

- fitting a switch to render an airbag temporarily inoperable, and

- the removal or permanent deactivation of an airbag in a vehicle that:
- is at least 14 years old, or
- has been adapted for a person with a disability, or
- has been extensively modified for motorsport use

All of the above modifications must be certified by a Low Volume Vehicle Certifier