Expert: Douglas Gan - 5/1/2010

Question
I need to clear the air bag light on my 2004 E46 316ti compact I have an OBDII SRS Fault reader and the Fault code is "0b battery safety switch 1"
I have checked the battery saftey terminal in the boot and all seems fine to connection to wheel arch, what can I check next?

thanks

Answer
Hello Rich:

I have not repaired a BMW fault code like that personally, but if the Battery Safety Terminal is in fact good, then you should be able to clear the code with your scanner.  Unlike other vehicles, BMW will not clear itself after a fault is repaired; it has to be manually cleared with a scan tool.  Even  a simple fault like a disconnected airbag with the key on will set a code that needs a scanner to clear it.  If the Battery safety cable keeps coming back, then I suggest you replace it.

You don't say if your vehicle was involved in a deployment...if it was, here's a site that will explain everything you need to know about airbag systems, airbag lights and resetting the system.  It shows you the location of the components and the procedure for diagnosing and resetting airbag lights after a deployment.  Not all vehicles need everything replaced and not all fault codes are listed.  It does NOT HAVE step-by-step repair procedures!
You can check to see if your car is listed here.
http://www.airbagsolutions.com/
Although it’s a pay site ($14.95/day), it’s a lot cheaper than going to the dealer

Good luck
Doug