Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Airbag System Testing

Required Tools
VAG 1619 or equivalent

Preliminary Steps
- Ensure airbag warning light is OK.
- Disconnect battery ground cable and cover negative terminal.
- Remove center console trim on righthand side.
- Disconnect 10-point connector from triggering unit. Locations



- Connect airbag tester VAG 1619 or equivalent to wiring harness per manufacturers instructions (triggering unit remains disconnected).
- Reconnect battery ground cable.

Testing

1. Test voltage supply as follows:
a. Switch tester to No. 1 position, then turn ignition switch to On position.
b. Tester light and airbag warning light should be ON and tester should display: battery voltage.
c. If not, check battery state of charge and wiring for defects.

2. Test voltage transformer as follows:
a. Switch tester to No. 2 position, then turn ignition switch to On position.
b. Tester light should be ON and tester should display: 11-13.
c. If not, wiring, voltage transformer, or energy reserve unit are defective.

3. Test resistor, ignition circuit as follows:
a. Switch tester to No. 3 position, then turn ignition switch to On position and turn steering wheel to left and right stops.
b. Tester light should be ON and tester should display: 2.15-3.4.
c. If not, spiral spring or wiring are defective.

4. Test for short circuit as follows:
a. Switch tester to No. 3 position, then turn ignition switch to On position and push button.
b. Tester light should be ON and tester should display: EE-E.
c. If not, wiring is defective.

5. Test to check energy reserve charge as follows:
a. Switch tester to No. 6 position, then turn ignition switch to On.
b. Tester light should be ON and tester should display: greater than 9.0.
c. If not, wiring is defective to energy reserve.

6. Test to check energy reserve as follows:
a. Switch tester to No. 7 position, then turn ignition switch to On.
b. Tester light should be ON, then goes out and tester should display: greater than 7.0 after light goes out.
c. If not, energy reserve is defective.

- After testing is complete, disconnect battery ground cable and cover negative terminal.
- Disconnect VAG 1619, then reconnect 10-point connector for triggering unit.
- Install righthand center console trim, then reconnect battery ground cable.