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According to the manual, the airbag sensors should be checked when the vehicle is ten years old. Just curious if anyone here has had theirs checked, and if so, how much were you charged? Any idea what type of checks the techs do? I'm just assuming that the techs run a simple diagnostic check to make sure all sensors are in working order.
Now, I can't be sure with the Lexus in this case, but every other car I've owned the 10 year air bag check is the dealer turning your ignition on and seeing if the airbag light is working, then if it goes out as it supposed to. If the airbag light stays on you have a problem. With the Lexus, you can also do the diagostic test via the diagnostic plug. If the airbag light shows a trouble code you have a problem. Also, same as with the other cars. The light should come on upon ignition, then turn off. If it stays on you have a problem. I have worked at a dealer long ago and they do not take apart your airbags and inspect the connectors or anything like that. Feel free to get a second opinion if you want though. I for one don't worry about it unless I have a trouble light. That is advice from service tech friends of mine that work for differnet dealerships.
PS. I have OEM service manuals from other cars that basically described the same procedure I mentioned above.
PSS. There is a joke that one of my tech friends told me. If you want to test the aitbags crash your car into a light pole. Obvisouly he was kidding and then told me the system basically tests itself everytime you start your car.
Last edited by CK6Speed; Feb 25, 2005 at 01:27 AM.
Thanks for the reply. That's kinda what I thought, I just wanted an opinion other than mine. Manufacturer recommended service intervals are always running on the safe side anyway in order to prevent the company from being liable if something fails.
Q: How often should the airbags be inspected in Lexus vehicles?
A: The airbag system should be checked 10 years from the manufacture date on the certification label, and then every 2 years thereafter. The check involves a visual inspection of the airbag cover(s) for any damage, initiating the airbag self-diagnostic system, and using a diagnostic tester to check for codes. Removing the steering wheel airbag to check the condition of the wires and connections may also be recommended. The specific recommendation for a given year and model may be found in the appropriate Repair Manual. A qualified technician, preferably a Lexus dealer, should perform these services.
If the SRS airbag light is illuminated on the dash the vehicle should be immediately inspected and repaired by a Lexus dealer. If the light is on, the system may not operate in the event of a collision