Airbag light problem

I have an 01 LW300, where SOMETIMES the red Air Bag light goes on and stays
on, usually with the yellow Service light. It is an intermittant problem,
when it goes on it stays on until the engine is off. Then next time, it
might not go on again, nor again for the next few trips.

Anyway, today Saturn told me I needed a new "Body Control Module" (main
computer) and that it would cost about $400.

The car works fine, light on or off. Anyone have a similar problem? Did
you go for the new Body Control Module, or did you get a used/salvage one?
I'm not in a position to pay $400. at this point.
Thanks,
Gabe

 

Some things to consider:
Your airbag is not functioning properly (whatever the reason). It's an
integral safety feature (I won't go into anything more to say that my wife
walked out of a VERY bad wreck thanks in part to the airbag). Your dealer
now has the problem documented. So should you get into an accident and the
thing doesn't deploy and you're hurt as a result (even if NOT a result) and
your insurance co. or the at fault co. finds this out (and they will) you
won't get paid for injuries and they can mount up fast. So you decide if
it's worth $400.
Larry

 

Were you able to have the codes read out? This may give some more
information.
I have the same model and the only major problem was that during the 90 day
used car warranty, I noticed the ABS and TRAC lights did not come on for
test during engine starting. Brought it to dealer and they replaced the BCM
(Body Control Module) under warranty. Part of the service was 're-flash BCM'
so I assume that a used one may not work. I think that all the modules are
electronically keyed too. If you have a good relation with a dealer service,
they might re-flash a used module for you ;-)
BCM is mounted on top of the glove box.
Passive restraint module (airbag control) is under the rear of the center
console.

 

Forgot to mention that the airbag circuits are yellow wires. Any service
that might cause airbag deployment should disable them first.

*Disclaimer* this is from memory
remove IGN1 fuse from under hood fuse block.
put steering wheels in straight ahead position.
Remove cover under dash (under steerring wheel).
Disconnect two (2)- 2 circuit connectors with yellow wires (these are the
ones that directly fire the airbag squibs)
Airbags are now disabled for service.

Reverse order to reconnect.

Note that airbag module can trigger the airbags for up to a minute after the
IGN1 fuse is disconnected. Wait at least this long before touching anything
else.
(unless you like to hear loud 'POOF's and putting your steering wheel and
dashboard back together with duct tape)

 

Check your battery. Dying battery (or alternator) and also corroded contacts
may cause different error codes in the control module during the heavy load.

 

Thanks, Jdoe, but that was the first thing I asked, and Saturn told me no,
the fact that the problem has been traced to the Body Control Module means
that my air bag IS working, and will properly deploy. They said it clearly
was NOT a problem with the airbag, which they were somehow able to isolate
in their testing. My airbag is functioning properly.
So to answer the legalistic issues you are raising, I have the full name of
the Saturn technician as well as a printout documenting yes, I need a new
BCM, but no, I am not driving in danger of its deployment or nondeployment.
Of course, my life is worth more than all the legality in the world, so I
will get the BCM replaced.
Thanks all for your suggestions. I will check out my battery and its
connections.
Gabe