What does supplemental restraint system problem mean on Honda Accord?
The supplemental restraint system (SRS) warning on a Honda Accord indicates a fault in the airbag and restraint system that could affect deployment in a crash. It is a safety-critical alert that should be addressed promptly by a qualified technician.
What is the Supplemental Restraint System?
The Supplemental Restraint System, or SRS, is Honda’s term for the airbags, pretensioners and related sensors that work with seat belts to reduce injuries in a collision. In an Accord, the system typically includes front airbags, side airbags where equipped, the airbag control unit, crash or impact sensors, the steering-column clock spring, seat occupancy or weight sensors, and the wiring and connectors that link these parts. The system is designed to detect a crash and deploy airbags as appropriate while coordinating belt pretensioners with occupant position.
Components that make up the SRS
Key parts that make up the SRS include the airbags, sensors, control module, and the wiring that connects them. Understanding these components helps explain why the warning light can come on for multiple reasons.
- Front airbags
- Side airbags (where equipped)
- Airbag control unit (SRS computer)
- Impact/crash sensors
- Clock spring in the steering column
- Seat occupancy/weight sensors
- Seat belt pretensioners
- SRS wiring and connectors
Together, these parts monitor crashes and decide whether airbags should deploy and how pretensioners should act. A fault in any one component can trigger the warning.
What can trigger the SRS warning light?
The SRS warning light can turn on for a variety of reasons, ranging from simple connection issues to failing sensors. It does not necessarily mean airbags will deploy in every crash, but it does indicate the system has detected a fault that requires service.
- Faulty crash sensors or airbag control module
- Damaged or loose airbag connectors or wiring
- Faulty or dirty seat occupancy/weight sensor
- Worn or damaged clock spring in the steering column
- Low battery voltage or power supply issues affecting SRS power
- Aftermarket modifications or incorrect repairs interfering with SRS wiring
- Recent airbag deployment or airbag replacement not properly reset
Because the SRS is a safety-critical system, any of these causes should be diagnosed and repaired by a qualified technician at a Honda dealership or an accredited auto shop.
What to do if the SRS warning light is on
When the SRS light comes on, treat it as an urgent safety concern. Do not assume the airbags will function in a crash without diagnosis. Here are the recommended steps.
- Safely pull over and turn off the engine if you can do so without risking your safety. Do not ignore the warning.
- Consult the owner’s manual for any specific guidance related to the SRS light.
- Have the vehicle towed to a Honda dealer or a qualified repair shop for a diagnostic scan using an OBD-II/SRS code reader.
- Have all identified faults diagnosed and repaired. This may involve replacing airbags, sensors, the clock spring, wiring, or the airbag control module.
- Do not attempt to reset or dismantle the airbag components yourself. Incorrect handling can cause injury or render the system unsafe.
Until repaired, avoid driving long distances and refrain from aftermarket modifications that could affect SRS wiring or sensors.
How repairs and costs typically unfold
Repairing an SRS fault varies widely depending on the exact component involved. Diagnosing the fault with a dealer-grade scan is the first step, after which you may need to replace one or more parts. Costs can range from a few hundred dollars for sensor replacements to over a thousand for airbag module or seat sensor work, plus labor. Insurance coverage, warranty status, and the extent of the fault all influence the final price.
Summary
An SRS problem on a Honda Accord signals a fault in the airbag and restraint system that could affect occupant protection in a crash. It requires prompt professional inspection and repair. Treat the warning as safety-critical: don’t drive long distances with the light on, have a qualified technician diagnose the root cause, and follow through with any recommended parts replacement or calibration to restore proper function.
How serious is a restraint system malfunction?
Depending on which part of your vehicle restraint system failed, your injuries may range from minor bruising to severe head trauma and paralysis. Although the injuries can vary, however, it's clear that defective seat belts always add to the severity of a car accident and can put many lives in danger.
Is it safe to drive with SRS problems?
Yes, it's fine to drive. The affected air bag system may not function if a collision occurs.
What is the supplemental restraint system problem on a Honda Accord?
Honda Accord "supplemental restraint system" (SRS) problems often trigger the airbag warning light and can involve various issues like faulty sensors, damaged wiring, or defective seatbelt pretensioners. These problems are serious because they can prevent the airbags or seatbelt pretensioners from deploying during a crash. Recent recalls and service bulletins have addressed issues like faulty SRS control units in 2008-2010 models and missing components in seat belt pretensioners for certain 2023-2024 models. You should take the vehicle to a Honda dealer immediately if the SRS light is on.
This video explains the common causes of the SRS light on a Honda Accord and what you should do: 57sNexologyYouTube · Aug 21, 2025
Common causes
- Faulty sensors: A sensor in the airbag system may malfunction.
- Damaged or disconnected wiring: Wires can become damaged or unplugged, especially after other repairs or installations.
- Faulty SRS unit: The control module that manages the system can fail.
- Seat belt issues: Problems with the seat belt pretensioner, which is part of the SRS, can cause the light to come on.
- Software glitches: In some newer hybrid models, an internal software error has led to a recall.
- Corrosion: Moisture can cause the SRS control unit to corrode and malfunction.
This video shows a common wiring issue that can cause the SRS light to illuminate: 51sBCauto_YouTube · Sep 7, 2023
What to do
- Do not ignore the light: Driving with the SRS light on is unsafe because your airbags may not deploy in an accident.
- Schedule service immediately: Contact a Honda dealer to have the system diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
- Inform the dealer about recalls: If your vehicle is part of a recall, mention it to the service advisor. Recent recalls for certain model years have addressed significant safety concerns, such as faulty seat belt pretensioners and SRS control units.
- Be prepared for costs: While some issues may be covered under warranty or a recall, other repairs could be costly. Be sure to confirm what will be covered before work begins.
- Document everything: Keep records of all visits, conversations, and paperwork related to the problem and repairs.
What does supplemental restraint system problem mean?
A "supplemental restraint system problem" means there is an issue with your vehicle's airbag and seat belt system, and the airbags may not deploy in an accident. This problem is often indicated by a warning light on the dashboard that looks like a person with a circle in front of them. Common causes include faulty sensors, damaged wiring, a bad seat belt component, or problems with the control unit.
What the SRS system is
- The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) is a vehicle's passive safety system, which includes airbags and seat belts.
- It is designed to protect occupants during a collision, particularly a major frontal impact.
- The warning light typically flashes briefly when you start the car and then turns off. If it stays on, it indicates a problem.
Common causes of an SRS problem
- Faulty sensors: These can be damaged or misaligned, preventing proper airbag deployment.
- Wiring issues: Damaged, disconnected, or corroded wiring, especially under the seats, is a frequent cause.
- Seat belt components: Problems with seat belt pretensioners or the belts themselves.
- Control unit: A failure in the main SRS control unit, sometimes caused by water damage or electrical issues.
- Previous accident: The system may not have been properly repaired after a past collision.
Why you should not ignore an SRS problem
- The warning light means the system may not work correctly in an accident, putting your safety at risk.
- It is essential to have the system diagnosed and repaired promptly by a qualified professional, such as a dealership.
- Driving with the light on is not recommended, as it compromises a critical safety feature.
