1988 M6 SRS light

[dcw]

104k mi on my M6. SRS light just came on. What am I likely facing to fix? Something I can handle or do I need dealer or qualified BMW shop?

[GIBSON]

The SRS light is a very common problem on BMW's and can be triggered to come on by an number of different things. They include removal of the steering wheel, removal of the dash or instruments in the dash, removal of the drivers seat among others. Many times, all that is necessary is to have the correct BMW tool to do the reset and you are back in business. If after re-setting, the light keeps coming back on, you may have a problem with the airbag and that might require replacement of the air bag. Often, it's just because something else was done to the car that caused it to set off the light. You can buy the reset tool or the dealer can re-set it for you. Whichever way you go, you should probably look into it as the airbag will not function if the light is on.
Good luck with it, let us know what happens.

Bruce

[Jeron]

Check the code, reset and see if it comes back.

Most common is passenger detection mat but I dont know if an 88 has dual bags. Second most common cause is seatbelt pre-tensioner.

Depending on the cause the air bag may still function.