Auto Airbag System Repair: air bag light, dodge ram 1500, website insurance

Question
Hi. I got a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500. Got an air bag light on. When scanned it comes as DTC cluster message mismatch and DTC first row driver seat belt pretensioner open. Would this mean I would need a new seat belt? thanks

Answer
Hi JD:

I really need to know the codes you pulled form the scan tool to tell you assuredly if that is the problem, however, based on what you said, my guess would be the seat belt has deployed and is throwing the code, causing the light to remain on and the system inoperative.
the computer will reset itself and the light should go out when the problem is repaired; you don;t necessarily need a new control module.

There are specific items that are required replacement items when a deployment occurs or when an airbag light comes on...and there are some items that are "check only".  Check out our company website below for the EXACT answers to your questions including fault code charts and reset information. This site tells you exactly what needs to be replaced and how to access them (seat belts & all) on over 3500 cars.  It's a pay site ($14.95 / day), but it's little money well spent (if you decide to buy a subscription) to get the correct answers and to see exactly what you're after...it uses pictures, not text, so you can see what you’re looking for.
This is the same website insurance companies and body shops use to determine what needs to be replaced.

Also, there's a page in this site that tells you which cars need a scan tool to reset the system and which ones can be done without it.
http://www.airbagsolutions.com

Good luck
Doug