1991 325i SRS light doesn't come on

[salvadorwill]

This thread got me thinking. I just reinstalled my check panel today after I fixed the broken clips holding the face plate. My SRS light stays lit. Is that normal operation?

No, that means you have an error in the SRS system. From what I understand, when you turn the key to ACC or ignition, that powers up the SRS module. It runs a check for about 5ish seconds during which time the SRS light stays on. If it doesn't turn off, that means there is a fault. You can scan for it to get the code. You may also just need to reset it, the reset procedure in on here somewhere.

[Vincenze]

I just realized something. Will resetting the light even work since I have a Z3 steering rack? Wondering if it’s a moot point.

It's a mechanical part. It has no connection to the SRS system.

[laidback93]

The guide worked for me.

You'll need a longer cable, so you'll short it inside of the car.
Also, you'll need a stopwatch, any phone should have one. Just run it, and when it counts to 5 seconds, start the sequence, then 10, 15...

I just realized something. Will resetting the light even work since I have a Z3 steering rack? Wondering if it’s a moot point.

[Vincenze]

Got it. I recently removed the steering wheel to replace the ignition switch so I'm sure that did it. My SRS light doesn't flash. Just stays lit from the moment I start the car.

I'll use that guide you send to try and reset it.

Thanks!

The guide worked for me.

You'll need a longer cable, so you'll short it inside of the car.
Also, you'll need a stopwatch, any phone should have one. Just run it, and when it counts to 5 seconds, start the sequence, then 10, 15...

[laidback93]

Yes.

If you disconnect the airbag and then connect the battery, the light will stay on.

You can count the flashes of the light and find the error code.

Got it. I recently removed the steering wheel to replace the ignition switch so I'm sure that did it. My SRS light doesn't flash. Just stays lit from the moment I start the car.

I'll use that guide you send to try and reset it.

Thanks!

[Vincenze]

Thanks for the info.

So is the light supposed to come on and then go off once it does the system check?

Yes.

If you disconnect the airbag and then connect the battery, the light will stay on.

You can count the flashes of the light and find the error code.

[laidback93]

You can try to reset it.

https://www.r3vlimited.com/board/for...eset-procedure

Thanks for the info.

So is the light supposed to come on and then go off once it does the system check?

[Vincenze]

This thread got me thinking. I just reinstalled my check panel today after I fixed the broken clips holding the face plate. My SRS light stays lit. Is that normal operation?

You can try to reset it.

https://www.r3vlimited.com/board/forum/e30-technical-forums/e30-faq-and-diy/373906-e30-srs-reset-procedure

[laidback93]

This thread got me thinking. I just reinstalled my check panel today after I fixed the broken clips holding the face plate. My SRS light stays lit. Is that normal operation?

[Vincenze]

Well, it's probably inoperative. Unless you need the SRS system to pass an inspection (you shouldn't) you should just ignore the fault, swap the steering wheel and make sure your seat belt is in good condition (always a good idea).

It seems the airbag in this partout car was operative.

[Vance78]

It may be caused by the excessive resistance of the line to control the restart capsule, or the failure of the SRS computer system. It is recommended to check the fault code or wrap some insulating tape around the online rental.

[salvadorwill]

Final update: Got a working SRS module and swapped it in, and it works fine. Didn't even need to reset it. Thanks again to Vincenze for all the help.

[salvadorwill]

Yup, no surprise I guess. Is it as easy as buying another computer and swapping it in? Is that safe?

[Vincenze]

Then, the SRS computer is most likely dead.

[salvadorwill]

Ok, cool. Did they even have airbags in '89?
Yes, pin #6 get 12v in Assy, and pin #7 is connected to pin #1 (Br/Bk) on the SRS connector.