Honda SRS Light On? Causes, Fixes & Reset Guide for All Honda Models
If your Honda SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) light is on, it means there’s an issue with your airbag system, which could prevent airbags from deploying in a crash. Whether you drive a Honda Civic, Accord, CR-V, Pilot, Odyssey, HR-V, Ridgeline, or any other model, this guide will cover the common causes, how to fix them, and how to reset the SRS light.
What Does the Honda SRS Light Mean?
The SRS warning light in Honda vehicles alerts you to a problem with the airbag system, seat belt pretensioners, crash sensors, or related wiring. If the light stays on, your airbags may not deploy in an accident, putting you at serious risk.
Important: The SRS light does not indicate a minor issue—your Honda’s safety system is compromised.
Common Causes of the SRS Light in All Honda Models
1. Faulty Airbag Sensors
Airbag crash sensors detect impacts and determine if the airbags should deploy.
If a sensor fails, disconnects, or corrodes, the SRS warning light will turn on.
Affected Honda Models:
Honda Civic (2006-2024) – Common in 8th and 9th-gen models.
Honda Accord (2003-2024) – Older models often develop sensor issues.
Honda CR-V (2007-2024) – Airbag sensor failures have been reported.
2. Weak or Disconnected Battery
If your Honda’s battery was replaced, disconnected, or died, the system may store an SRS error code.
A low battery voltage can also trigger the airbag warning light.
Honda Models Affected:
Honda Pilot & Odyssey (2010-2024) – SRS issues after battery replacements.
Honda HR-V & CR-V (2016-2024) – Low voltage triggers SRS errors.
Honda Ridgeline (2006-2024) – Jump-starting can trigger the SRS warning.
3. Worn-Out Clock Spring (Steering Wheel Wiring Issue)
The clock spring connects the driver’s airbag to the electrical system.
If it breaks or wears out, it causes an open circuit, leading to an SRS system error.
Common in:
Honda Civic (2012-2024) – 9th-gen models frequently have clock spring failures.
Honda Accord (2008-2024) – SRS light appears due to steering wheel wiring.
Seat Belt Pretensioner Malfunction
Honda’s seat belt pretensioners tighten the belt during a crash.
If they fail, disconnect, or become damaged, the SRS light stays on.
Honda Models Affected:
Honda CR-V & Pilot (2015-2024) – Pretensioner recalls reported.
Honda Odyssey & Ridgeline (2011-2024) – Seat belt sensor failures are common.
5. Loose or Corroded Airbag Wiring Connections
Under-seat airbag wiring can become loose or corroded over time.
Moving the front seats forward/backward can sometimes disconnect a sensor wire, triggering the SRS light.
Check these models:
Honda Accord & Civic (2010-2024) – Common issue with loose airbag connectors.
Honda HR-V & CR-V (2016-2024) – Seat wiring can cause intermittent SRS errors.
6. Previous Airbag Deployment (Not Replaced)
If your Honda’s airbags deployed in a past accident but the SRS module wasn’t replaced, the light stays on.
The airbag module may need replacement.
Most Common in:
Honda Accord, Civic, and CR-V (2008-2024) – Airbag module reset required after deployment.
7. Water or Flood Damage
Flooded Honda vehicles can suffer SRS control module corrosion, leading to system failure.
If your car was in a flood or exposed to excess moisture, it may need airbag module replacement.
How to Fix the SRS Light on a Honda
Step 1: Check Your Battery
If the SRS warning light appeared after a battery change or jump-start, try resetting it.
Ensure your battery terminals are secure and voltage is within the correct range.
Step 2: Inspect Airbag Wiring & Connectors
Look under both front seats for loose, disconnected, or damaged airbag connectors.
If you find a disconnected plug, carefully reconnect it and check if the light turns off.
NEVER unplug anything while the car is running—this could trigger new errors.
Step 3: Use an OBD2 Scanner with SRS Capabilities
A standard OBD2 scanner won’t read SRS codes—you need a scanner with airbag diagnostics.
Plug the scanner into the OBD2 port (under the dashboard) and retrieve error codes.
Common Honda SRS codes include:
Code 11-10: Faulty airbag control unit
Code 51-XX: Driver’s airbag open circuit
Code 61-XX: Low voltage detected
Step 4: Reset the Honda SRS Light (If Issue is Fixed)
If the SRS system was triggered due to a temporary issue (like a dead battery or loose wire), you may need to reset it with an OBD2 Scanner with SRS Capabilities .
Note: If the SRS light does not reset or comes back later, there’s still an active issue that needs to be fixed.
Step 5: Visit a Mechanic if Needed
If you can’t determine the cause, visit a Honda dealership or certified mechanic for professional diagnosis and repair.
Cost to Fix Honda SRS Light Issues
The cost to fix the SRS airbag system in a Honda depends on the underlying issue:
Issue and Estimated Cost (Approx)
Basic SRS Reset $100 – $150
OBD2 Scan & Diagnosis $50 – $200
Clock Spring Replacement $200 – $600
Airbag Sensor Replacement $300 – $800
Seat Belt Pretensioner Repair $150 – $400
SRS Module Replacement $500 – $1,200
Is It Safe to Drive with the SRS Light On?
No, it is NOT safe to drive with the SRS light on.
If the SRS system is malfunctioning, Your airbags may NOT deploy in a crash.
Some faults could cause unexpected airbag deployment while driving.
Get the issue checked immediately for your safety.
Final Thoughts: Fixing the Honda SRS Warning Light
The SRS light is a critical safety warning—**don’t ignore it**.
Check your battery, wiring, and use an OBD2 scanner to diagnose the problem.
If you can’t reset it yourself, visit a mechanic or Honda dealership for proper repairs.
Would you like help with specific instructions for your Honda model? Let me know!
Disclaimer: The advice provided above is strictly for educational purposes only. HelpMeHonda will not be liable or held responsible for any use or misuse of the information provided. Always consult a professional for specific guidance related to your situation.