If you own a Volvo and notice that you are getting the SRS warning lights on your Volvo’s dashboard, do not ignore them. Many drivers in Apex, North Carolina, and surrounding areas may assume that this warning is not to be addressed urgently, but later. However, the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) is a critical safety component, and delaying its repair could put your life or the lives of the passengers at serious risk.
At Peak Auto of Apex, NC, we frequently see customers arriving with concerns about warning lights, particularly the SRS light. As your trusted Volvo service center in the Northern California area, we want to help you understand why this issue matters and what you should do about it right away.
What is Volvo’s SRS Warning Light?
The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) warning light is a part of your Volvo’s advanced safety system. This system includes airbags, seatbelt tensioners, crash sensors, and occupant detection sensors when functioning correctly. Practically, it encompasses everything that helps protect you and your passengers in the event of a crash, beyond just the standard seatbelt.
When the SRS light warning comes on, it typically means that there’s a malfunction in one or more of these systems. In most Volvo models, when you first start the vehicle, the SRS lights will turn on briefly to ensure the system is working correctly. After checking itself to see if everything is working properly, it should turn off within a few seconds. If it stays on, that’s a red flag. It means your car’s safety feature may not work as intended during an accident.
Problems A Faulty SRS System Can Cause
Airbag Deployment Failure
If your Volvo’s computer detects a fault in the SRS system, it might disable the deployment of airbags entirely. This means in the event of a collision, the airbags could fail to deploy, causing serious injuries or even death to the driver and passengers.
Unintended Airbag Deployment
On the other hand, a malfunctioning SRS System might cause the airbags to deploy unexpectedly, even in the absence of a collision. This is not only dangerous but also can cause additional damage to your vehicle.
Seatbelt Pretensioner Failure
Volvo utilizes automatic seatbelt pre-tensioners that tighten the seatbelts within milliseconds when a collision occurs, thereby preventing severe harm. If the SRS light is on, this may not activate and significantly reduce your safety.
Inspection Failure in North Carolina
In North Carolina and its surrounding cities, your car must pass a safety inspection before your registration is renewed. If your SRS light is on, your vehicle may fail the inspection. It will prevent you from legally driving the car until it’s repaired.
Why You Should Not Delay Repairing the SRS Warning Light
Safety Should Always Come First
Volvo has globally earned a reputation for its safety, largely due to its sophisticated restraint systems. Driving with a faulty SRS System means you are not benefiting from that protection. In a crash, the difference could be life or death.
Avoid Expensive Future Repairs
What starts as a simple sensor or wiring issue could turn into a more expensive repair if ignored. A malfunctioning module might affect other components, including your electrical systems. By fixing it promptly at Peak Auto, located near you in Apex, NC, you can prevent long-term damage.
Maintain Your Car’s Resale Value
If you plan to sell or trade in your Volvo, a glowing SRS light on the dashboard is a great red flag for buyers. It signals neglect and significantly lowers the resale value. A documented repair done at a trusted local auto shop near you, such as Peak Auto in Apex, NC, demonstrates that you have taken care of your vehicle.
Insurance Implications
In the event of an accident, some insurance companies may reduce claim payouts if it’s found that a critical safety system was knowingly left unpaired. That small light could cost you an arm and a leg compared to the repair bill.
Common Reasons the SRS Lights Turn on in A Volvo
At Peak Auto of Apex, NC, our master technicians are skilled in diagnosing and repairing European vehicles, especially Volvos. They found some common reasons that are:
- Loose or corroded connectors under the seats
- Defective seatbelt latch sensors
- Faulty Crash or Impact sensors
- Malfunctioning airbag modules
- Worn-out clock spring in the steering column
- Low battery voltage or recent battery change
- Software issues that require an update
Why Choose Peak Auto in the APEX, NC Neighborhood
At Peak Auto in Apex, NC, we understand your 
Volvo’s performance matters. We specialize in European cars using the latest tools and genuine Volvo parts to bring your vehicle back to life. Our ASE-certified technician provides expert diagnostics and repairs, clearly explaining everything. We are a locally owned and operated business offering courtesy transportation and courtesy cars, a night drop service, and often same-day service for issues like SRS warning lights. You can trust your Volvo with our fully licensed and insured team, ensuring it performs at its best. Visit or call Peak Auto today to schedule an appointment.
* Gray Volvo XC90 Car image credit goes to: Artistic Operations.
