Possible causes include:
* Faulty sensor: A crash sensor, impact sensor, or other sensor in the system might be malfunctioning. These sensors are crucial for determining whether or not to deploy the airbags.
* Wiring problem: Damaged, corroded, or disconnected wires anywhere in the SRS wiring harness can trigger the light.
* Faulty control module (Airbag Control Unit/ACM): The ACM is the "brain" of the system. A malfunctioning ACM is a common cause of airbag light illumination.
* Faulty airbag: While less common, a problem within the airbag itself could be the culprit.
* Seatbelt pretensioner issue: A problem with the seatbelt pretensioners (the devices that tighten seatbelts in a crash) can also trigger the light.
* Low voltage: Sometimes a low battery voltage can cause the light to come on.
* Disconnected connectors: A simple loose or disconnected connector somewhere in the system could be the issue.
Driving with the airbag light on is risky. It means a crucial safety system might not function correctly in a crash. You should have the system professionally diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
Do not attempt to diagnose or repair the system yourself. The airbag system contains high-voltage components that can be extremely dangerous if mishandled. Take your PT Cruiser to a qualified mechanic or dealership for diagnosis and repair. They'll use a diagnostic scanner specifically designed for SRS systems to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem.
