Airbags are essential safety features, and modern vehicles like Subarus are equipped with sensors and warning systems to alert you if something’s wrong. One key indicator is the airbag warning light—it briefly illuminates when you start your engine as the system performs a self-check. If everything is functioning correctly, the light should turn off within a few seconds.
But if the airbag light stays on—or fails to come on at all—it likely means there’s a fault in the system that needs attention. Ignoring it could compromise your safety in the event of a crash.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to take if your Subaru’s airbag warning light remains on, what it might mean, and how to get it fixed safely.
What Causes the Airbag Warning Light to Stay On?
If your Subaru’s airbag warning light stays on, it could be triggered by a variety of issues—some minor and easy to fix, others requiring the attention of a certified Subaru technician. Knowing the possible causes can help you eliminate simple fixes before heading to the dealership, potentially saving you both time and money.
Turn the Engine Off and On Again
Since many of your Subaru’s systems rely on computerized controls, a minor software glitch can occasionally cause the airbag warning light to stay on. In some cases, a simple restart may resolve the issue.
Start by turning the engine on and letting it run for a few seconds. Then, shut it off completely. Wait a few moments before restarting the vehicle. If the light was triggered by a temporary software hiccup, this reset may clear it. However, if the warning light stays on, the issue likely goes beyond a simple glitch and requires further inspection.
Take the Vehicle for a Short Drive
If your Subaru hasn’t been driven for a while, the airbag warning light may be triggered by inactivity or minor sensor issues. If restarting the engine doesn’t clear the light, try taking the car for a short test drive.
Driving for a few minutes allows the system to recheck sensor data and may clear the warning if the issue was temporary. If the airbag light remains on after your drive, it’s time to move on to the next potential fix.
Check the Passenger Airbag Switch
Many Subaru models (and other vehicles) include a passenger-side airbag switch that can manually disable the airbag—usually for safety reasons when a child seat is installed. If this switch is turned off, it can trigger the airbag warning light on your dashboard.
Even if you didn’t switch it off yourself, it may have been accidentally disconnected during interior cleaning, detailing, or other routine maintenance. Depending on your Subaru model, this switch could be located under the passenger seat or inside the glove box.
Double-check that the switch is set to “ON”, and if necessary, reconnect it securely. If the light remains on after confirming the switch is in the correct position, there may be another issue within the system that needs attention.
Check the Safety Belts
In many Subaru models, the airbag system (SRS) is closely linked to the seat belt system. If your seat belts aren’t functioning properly, it could trigger the airbag warning light. That’s why the next thing to inspect is your vehicle’s seat belt mechanism.
Several issues can cause a seat belt malfunction—ranging from a faulty buckle sensor to something as simple as debris or obstructions in the fastening system. It’s not uncommon for small objects like coins or crumbs to get lodged in the buckle, preventing it from clicking or engaging correctly.
Carefully inspect each seat belt, especially the front passenger and driver sides, for visible blockages or damage. If you find and resolve a problem—whether it’s a stuck object or a loose connection—there’s a good chance it will also clear the airbag warning light. If the belts appear to be in proper working order, the issue may lie elsewhere in the system.
Get Expert Help
The steps above are quick checks you can try yourself, but if your Subaru’s airbag warning light is still on, the issue may be more serious—potentially involving faulty sensors or a deeper problem within the airbag system itself.
At this point, the safest course of action is to take your vehicle to a certified Subaru dealership or a trusted mechanic with access to advanced Subaru diagnostic equipment. A professional technician can perform a full system scan, pinpoint the exact issue, and recommend the necessary repairs. If a sensor is faulty, it may need to be replaced, and the system will need to be reset to clear the warning light.
Don’t ignore an active airbag warning—getting expert help ensures that your vehicle’s safety systems are fully functional and ready to protect you in an emergency.