How To Start Car After Airbags Deploy

The question of whether you can start a car after the airbags have deployed is complex. The short answer is: It depends. There’s no universal “yes” or “no” answer. Several factors influence whether a deployed airbag will prevent your car from restarting, including the make and model of your vehicle, the severity of the accident, and the specific safety systems integrated into your car's electronics.

Why This Matters: Understanding the Aftermath of Airbag Deployment

Understanding what happens when your airbags deploy is crucial. Airbag deployment is a violent event. It involves sensors detecting a significant impact, which triggers an inflator to rapidly fill the airbags with gas. This process is designed to protect you in a collision, but it can also affect other vehicle systems.

Here's a breakdown of why the deployment affects starting your car:

1. Inertia Switch/Fuel Cut-Off:

Many vehicles are equipped with an inertia switch or fuel cut-off. This safety feature automatically shuts off the fuel pump in the event of a collision to prevent fuel leaks and potential fires. Airbag deployment often triggers this switch. If the fuel pump is shut off, the engine will not receive fuel, and therefore, the car won't start.

2. Electrical System Damage:

The force of the impact that caused the airbags to deploy may have also damaged the car's electrical system. Wiring harnesses could be severed, connectors could be dislodged, or the battery could be damaged. These electrical problems can prevent the car from starting.

3. Airbag Control Module (ACM):

The Airbag Control Module (ACM) or Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) control unit is responsible for deploying the airbags. After a deployment, the ACM may go into a "locked" state, preventing the car from starting. Some vehicles require the ACM to be reset or replaced before the car can be restarted. This usually requires specialized diagnostic equipment.

4. Mechanical Damage:

While not directly related to the airbag deployment, the collision itself might have caused mechanical damage to the engine, transmission, or other vital components. This damage could obviously prevent the car from starting.

5. Smart Airbag Systems:

Modern vehicles often have "smart" airbag systems that are integrated with other vehicle systems. These systems might be programmed to disable the engine or other functions after airbag deployment as a safety precaution.

How to Choose the Right Course of Action After Airbag Deployment

So, what should you do if your airbags have deployed and you need to try to start your car? Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Safety First:

Before you do anything else, ensure your safety and the safety of everyone around you. Check for injuries, move the vehicle to a safe location if possible (and if it's safe to do so), and turn on your hazard lights. Call emergency services if necessary.

2. Assess the Situation (If Safe):

Once everyone is safe, take a look at the vehicle (if safe to approach it). Check for:

• Fuel leaks: Smell for gasoline or other fluids. If you detect a leak, do not attempt to start the car.
• Visible damage: Look for obvious mechanical damage to the engine, wheels, or other components.
• Electrical damage: Check for frayed wires, disconnected connectors, or a damaged battery.

3. Consult the Owner's Manual:

Your owner's manual may provide specific instructions on what to do after airbag deployment. It might contain information about resetting the fuel cut-off switch or other relevant procedures. Refer to the section on safety systems or emergency procedures.

4. Reset the Inertia Switch (If Applicable):

If your car has an inertia switch, try to locate it and reset it. The location of this switch varies depending on the vehicle. It's often found in the trunk, under the dashboard, or near the firewall. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact location and instructions on how to reset it. Typically, it involves pressing a button or flipping a switch.

5. Check the Battery:

Ensure the battery terminals are clean and securely connected. A loose or corroded connection can prevent the car from starting. If possible, check the battery voltage with a voltmeter. It should read around 12.6 volts.

6. Attempt to Start the Car:

After you've checked the above steps, try to start the car. Turn the key to the "start" position and listen for the engine to crank. If the engine cranks but doesn't start, it could indicate a fuel or ignition problem. If the engine doesn't crank at all, it could be a problem with the battery, starter, or electrical system.

7. Do NOT Continue Cranking for Extended Periods:

If the car doesn't start after a few attempts, stop. Continuing to crank the engine can damage the starter motor and other components.

8. Seek Professional Assistance:

The best course of action after airbag deployment is to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic. They can diagnose the problem accurately and make the necessary repairs. Don't attempt to drive the car if you're unsure about its safety or if you suspect significant damage.

Real-World Owner Experiences

Online forums and automotive communities are filled with stories from car owners who have experienced airbag deployment. Here are some common themes:

• Difficulty Starting: Many owners report that their cars would not start after airbag deployment, even if the damage appeared minor.
• Inertia Switch Issues: Resetting the inertia switch often allows the car to start, but this is not always the case.
• Electrical Problems: Electrical issues are a common culprit, ranging from blown fuses to damaged wiring harnesses.
• ACM Reset Required: Some owners had to take their vehicles to a dealership to have the ACM reset before the car would start.
• Hidden Damage: Seemingly minor accidents can cause hidden damage that prevents the car from starting. A professional inspection is always recommended.

These experiences highlight the unpredictable nature of airbag deployment and the importance of seeking professional help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Will my insurance cover the cost of repairs after airbag deployment?

A: In most cases, yes. If the accident was covered under your insurance policy (collision or comprehensive), the repairs, including airbag replacement and any related damage, should be covered, subject to your deductible.

Q: Can I replace the airbags myself?

A: It is strongly discouraged to replace airbags yourself. Airbag replacement is a complex and potentially dangerous procedure that should only be performed by qualified technicians. Improper installation can lead to serious injury or death.

Q: Is it safe to drive a car with deployed airbags?

A: No. It is not safe to drive a car with deployed airbags. The airbags need to be replaced, and there may be other underlying damage to the vehicle that needs to be addressed. Additionally, if the airbags deployed, the vehicle may no longer provide the same level of protection in a subsequent accident.

Q: How much does it cost to replace airbags?

A: The cost of airbag replacement varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the number of airbags that need to be replaced, and the labor costs involved. It can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Q: Can I sell a car with deployed airbags?

A: Yes, you can sell a car with deployed airbags, but you must disclose this information to the buyer. Selling a car without disclosing that the airbags have been deployed is illegal in many jurisdictions.

Q: My car won't start and the airbag light is on. What does this mean?

A: This strongly suggests a problem with the airbag system. It could be a sensor malfunction, a wiring issue, or a problem with the ACM. A diagnostic scan by a qualified mechanic is recommended to determine the exact cause.

In conclusion, determining whether you can start a car after airbags deploy requires careful assessment and often, professional intervention. Always prioritize safety and seek expert advice to ensure the vehicle is safe to operate.