SRS Airbag Module Reset After an Accident
Airbag light won't go out after a deployment or fender-bender? The SRS module is locked, not broken. Here's what's actually stored on the chip and how a proper reset clears it — for every major make, with the original part number kept.
Published May 20, 2026 · By TMW Repairs
What "crash data" actually is
When the SRS module fires an airbag or pretensioner, it writes a permanent hard code into its EEPROM. This data tells the module a deployment has happened, and from that point forward it refuses to arm again. A scan tool can read the codes but cannot erase them — the lockout flag has to be cleared on the chip itself.
Symptoms of a locked SRS module
- • Airbag / SRS warning light stays on after the crash
- • Hard codes that won't clear with a scan tool
- • Codes like B0001, B1000, B1001, 9-1, 14-1, "crash recorded"
- • Seat belt pretensioner indicator stays on
- • Vehicle fails state inspection
Why a dealer replacement is overkill
A new SRS module from the dealer runs $400–$1,200 depending on the vehicle, and most of them now require online programming with the VIN and security keys. The module itself is mechanically and electrically perfect — only the EEPROM data is flagged. Resetting that data returns the unit to its original factory state.
All replaced airbags, clock springs, seat belts, and pretensioners still need to be physically replaced — the reset only addresses the module, not the pyrotechnics.
Makes we reset
- • Honda / Acura
- • Toyota / Lexus / Scion
- • Ford / Lincoln / Mercury
- • GM (Chevy, GMC, Buick, Cadillac)
- • Nissan / Infiniti
- • Hyundai / Kia / Genesis
- • VW / Audi
- • BMW / MINI / Mercedes-Benz
- • Subaru, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Volvo, Jeep / Ram / Dodge / Chrysler
How TMW Repairs resets it
- Pull the SRS module (usually under the center console or driver seat) and ship it with our prepaid FedEx label.
- We read the EEPROM, clear the crash flags and all hard codes, and restore the original factory data block.
- The module is bench-tested before it ships back the same or next business day.
- You re-install it, cycle the key, and the airbag light goes out. No coding, no programming, no VIN write.
Cost & turnaround
- • 24-hour turnaround on most resets
- • Lifetime warranty on the reset itself
- • Original module, original part number, original VIN
- • Typically 70–90% cheaper than a dealer replacement
Ready to send your SRS module in?
Start a repair online and we'll email you a prepaid FedEx label within minutes.
Questions buyers ask before sending it in
Do I still need to replace the airbag itself?
Yes. Any deployed airbag, clock spring, seat belt, or pretensioner must still be physically replaced. The reset only addresses the locked module, not the pyrotechnics.
What is 'crash data' exactly?
When the SRS module commands a deployment (or detects a severe-enough impact) it writes a permanent flag to its EEPROM that prevents the airbag system from arming again. A scan tool can read the code but cannot erase that flag — the chip itself has to be reprogrammed.
Will the reset wipe my VIN or coding?
No. Only the crash-data flag is cleared. The original VIN, configuration, and calibration are preserved.
How fast is the turnaround?
24-hour bench time on most SRS resets, plus return shipping. Express options at checkout.
Is it legal to reset an airbag module?
Resetting your own vehicle's SRS module for personal use is legal in the United States. We do not reset modules for resale or salvage rebuilds.
What's the warranty?
Lifetime warranty against the crash-data lock returning on the same module.