Airbag Light On

[cyberapache]

2001 Windstar airbag light flashes with code 15 (1 flash--pause--5 flashes, repeat 3 times and stay on solid). Does anyone knows what this error code is?

I know it's generally not good to mock around with airbags, but I'd like to know the problem before I take it in to the dealer (if necessary).

I don't want to take to this to a dealer to find out it's something as simple as a bad contact, loose connection, fuse, etc. so any hints or help will be appreciated.

[dugan50]

Hi there:
A code 15 on a 2001 windstar indicates "Incorrect Vehicle Identification". Unless someone has been messing with the BCM, or the Airbag control unit, there is no reason for this code to appear.
It's more likely that it's a code 51 which indicates a "Driver's Seat Belt Buckle Switch" failure

[cyberapache]

Thanks a lot for replying.

I checked the light again and it flashes 1-5-1-5-1-5 then goes solid. I'm sure no one has been mocking with BCM or airbag controller. Could either of them be faulty?

If it's code 51, how do I go about fixing the broken switch? Do you need to replace the entire buckle, or the switch is a replaceable part? How do I crack open the buckle to inspect the switch?

Regards.

[dugan50]

The Restraints control Module communicates with the front impact severity sensor, driver side impact sensor, and passenger side impact sensor to determine if each sensor is at the correct version level for the SRS installed in each vehicle. If the RCM detects a version conflict between the RCM and any of the sensors, it will store Diagnostic Trouble Code and flash Lamp Fault Code (LFC) 15 (or higher priority code if one exists) on the air bag indicator.

Possible Causes
An incorrect vehicle ID fault can be caused by:

• Incorrect sensor for vehicle.
• Incorrect RCM for vehicle.
• Incorrect Seat Occupant Sensor system for vehicle.
• Wiring, terminals, or connectors.

[cyberapache]

Thanks again.
I'll start troubleshooting from the bottom up: wiring, terminals, connectors, and then faulty seat occupant sensor.

I've owned this vehicle since new for 6 years, and this light just came on a couple of months ago. There has been no prior service of the SRS system. This makes the top two less likely.

I read somewhere that code 16 on another ford was faulty passenger side occupant sensor, and the dealer wanted $1,500 to repair. Apparently the sensor is tightly integrated with the seat so a large part of the seat cusions, etc. need to be replaced as part of the repair.

[deanwel]

i had the same problem if you do not have side air bags check under the passengers side front seat for a loose plug connection stuff gets shoved in under and pulls on wires

[cyberapache]

Never found the problem. Air Bag light went off by itself!
Not a good feeling, because it's likely going to come back.