2003 Toyota Avalon air bag alert flashes on dash

Tiny
DOROTHY PETERSON
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 TOYOTA AVALON
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 75,000 MILES
A symbol what looks like a seat with a red circle flashes off and on. The manuel implies that there may be something defective with the air bags.

Help!
Thursday, October 15th, 2009 AT 8:55 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,724 POSTS
Hi, Dorthy:

The light you are refering to is the air bag light. There are several sensors that can cause the light to turn on. To locate the source of the problem, you need to have the computer scanned by a mechanic. Without having it scanned, it becomes a guessing game and I don't want you to throw money into parts that don't need replaced.

What I recommend is to have it scanned by a mechanic. By scanning the computer, the mechanic should know where the problem is and be able to tell you. At that point, you can have him / her replace it or do it yourself if you feel confident. I will be here to help you if you need it. My biggest concern would be if you are unexperienced. Doing the wrong things can cause the airbag to deploy without warning.

Let me know what you decide. Also, if the light is lit, the airbag will not work in an accident.

Joe
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Thursday, October 15th, 2009 AT 9:38 PM
Tiny
DOROTHY PETERSON
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thank you for the info. I was trying to avoid going to a dealer as they seem to always challenge my confidence in their judgement thinking they may be taking advantage of me. Looks like I'm off to a Toyota dealer.

Thanks!
Fred
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Friday, October 16th, 2009 AT 9:10 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,724 POSTS
Fred:
Tell them you want the computer scanned and told what is causing it to come on. Find that out and let me know. Just for the heck of it, call a nationally recognized parts store near you and ask if they have the equipment to scan for such codes. I know they have them for engine codes. What is even better, most won't charge you for having it done. If there is an Auto Zone, Advance Auto. Near you, give it a try.
Joe
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+1
Friday, October 16th, 2009 AT 10:53 AM
Tiny
DOROTHY PETERSON
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Will do. Thanks! Great idea!
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Friday, October 16th, 2009 AT 11:16 AM

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