Mitsubishi Repair: srs (air bags system), negative battery cable, mitsubishi eclipse


Question
I have a 1996 Mitsubishi eclipse 2.0 L GS automatic. I was working with the horn and I had to disconnect the air bag plug in order to have more room to work. When I finished I connected the air bag plug and fastened with the four bolts. After I connected the negative battery cable back, I started the car and the SRS indicator light stays on. The manual says that
it should turn off in about 8 seconds.
What can I do to correct this problem?
I wil appreciate your help.   


Thank you.


Ruben Garay

Answer
Ruben,
You have an all too common problem when an airbag has been disconnected.  I checked my shop manuals, and there is no written procedure for 'resetting' the light.  Typically, the SRS light comes on when the SRS sensor detects a resistance value which is not correct.  The SRS module senses low voltage which is caused by the short and then trips the light. If you fix the short the SRS light should go away. You might want to check the airbag plug again to be sure there is a tight connection, and the connector is not touching anything that might be grounding the connection.

There is an SRS (airbag) fuse either under your dashboard or under your hood.  Pull it out, and check to make sure it's still good.  In fact, check all your fuses.  I have heard that the SRS light can come on due to a blown fuse for the backup lights.  Also check under your dashboard for a pair of yellow wires.  All airbag wires are yellow for any car.  Check to make sure there are not fraid wires that might be grounding themselves.  If you just can't find the problem yourself, you may have to resort to taking the car to the dealership to have it turned off (est. cost $90) :( .
Good luck!