airbag light on / won't run

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Feb 17, 2014 | 07:46 PM

wildabuck

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Joined: Feb 2014

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airbag light on / won't run

I have a 2003 Audi A4 1.8T. I went to start it this morning and the dash is completely dark except the airbag warning light is on. The car starts normally, runs normally for about 1 second, then stops. A "service" warning had appeared the last few times I drove it. The warning appeared when turning the key to IGN then disappeared when the car started. It was not in an accident. It ran great previously.

Any thoughts out there before I look into it further? Is there any scenario in which the computer would allow the engine to be started but then shut off the engine to prevent the car from being driven? This doesn't even seem to be the proper behavior if a crash detector went off.

Feb 18, 2014 | 02:29 AM

gsjohal

AudiWorld Member

Joined: Feb 2014

Posts: 87

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Hi.
Sounds like your dash panel insert (instrument cluster)has failed. The reason it starts and then cuts straight out is because the immobilizer (which is in the cluster) is activating , because it doesn't recognise the key. This is also why it is dark and displaying a random light (airbag). It will need to be replaced and just bear in mind it needs to be done by running the test plan to replace, with a diagnostic tester. Hope this helps.