Mechanic Wiki: How to Reset SRS Airbag Light on Hyundai Centennial (Equus)

Step-by-step guide to reset the airbag (SRS) light on a Hyundai Centennial. Use an OBD2 scanner, battery disconnect, or fix common codes like B1346. Safe, effective methods.

Last Updated: June 26, 2026

Quick Answer

To reset the Airbag (SRS) light on a Hyundai Centennial (also known as the Hyundai Equus), you need an OBD2 scanner that supports SRS systems. Simply turn the ignition off, connect the scanner to the diagnostic port under the dashboard, turn the ignition on, select the SRS or Airbag system, and choose “Erase Codes” or “Reset.” If the light stays off, the reset worked. For a temporary fix without a scanner, disconnect the battery for 30 minutes, but this only clears memory codes – not active faults. Always repair the underlying issue first (e.g., a faulty seat belt buckle or clock spring) before resetting.

Understanding the SRS Light in a Hyundai Centennial

The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in your Hyundai Centennial (Equus) is a network of safety components – airbags, seat belt pretensioners, impact sensors, and the control module. When the SRS light stays lit on your dashboard, it means the system has detected a fault and stored a trouble code. Driving with this light on is risky because the airbags may not deploy properly in a crash.

On the Hyundai Centennial (luxury sedan produced from 2009 to 2016), I’ve seen several common triggers for the SRS light:

Seat belt buckle switch failure – especially on the passenger side, where repeated use wears the contacts.
Low battery voltage or recent jump-start – a voltage spike can set a temporary code.
Crash history – even a minor fender bender can deploy a pretensioner or trigger a crash-recording code.
Clock spring wear – the component behind the steering wheel that connects the airbag and controls can fail over time.
Corroded connectors under the front seats – moisture from wet shoes or spilled drinks often causes intermittent faults.

Knowing these common issues helps you diagnose the light without guessing – and saves you time and money.

Safety First – Critical Precautions

Before you touch anything SRS-related, follow these rules. Ignoring them can cause injury or unexpected airbag deployment.

Always disconnect the negative battery cable before working on any SRS component.
Wait at least 3 minutes after disconnecting the battery for the capacitor in the airbag module to fully discharge.
Do NOT probe connectors with a multimeter unless you have training – accidentally shorting the wrong pin can fire an airbag.
Never use a test light on SRS circuits; the extra load can trigger deployment.

If you’re unsure about any step, take the car to a professional. There’s no shame in being safe.

Method 1: Reset Using a Diagnostic Scanner (Recommended)

This is the most reliable way to turn off the SRS light without guessing. A scanner lets you read the exact trouble code, repair the root cause, and then clear the fault.

What You Need

An OBD2 scanner that supports SRS / Airbag functions – for example, Autel, Launch, Foxwell, or a Hyundai-specific tool.
The scanner must be compatible with Hyundai’s K-Line or CAN bus protocols. Most modern scanners are, but check the specs.

Step‑by‑Step Procedure

Park safely and turn the ignition completely off. Remove the key from the ignition.
Locate the OBD2 port – it’s under the driver’s side dashboard, near the hood release lever.
Connect the scanner and then turn the ignition to ON (engine off). Do not start the car.
Select your vehicle: “Hyundai” → “Centennial” or “Equus” → model year.
Enter the SRS system – on most scanners it’s listed as “Airbag” or “Supplemental Restraint.”
Read the trouble codes – write them down for diagnosis. For example, you might see code B1346 (Passenger Occupant Detection System) or B1473 (Driver Side Buckle Switch).
Repair the root cause – the reset will fail if the fault is still active. For a code like B1346, you may need to clean or replace the seat belt buckle connector under the passenger seat.
After repairing, select “Erase Codes” or “Clear DTCs” on the scanner.
Confirm – the scanner will display “Codes cleared successfully.” The SRS light should turn off immediately.
Turn the ignition off, disconnect the scanner, and start the engine. The light should remain off.

Pro tip: If the light comes back on after a few days, you likely have an intermittent fault – check the connectors under the front seats for corrosion. Apply dielectric grease when reconnecting.

Method 2: Battery Disconnect Reset (Limited Effectiveness)

This method only clears temporary memory codes – for example, from a low battery or a jump-start. It will not fix active faults like a broken buckle switch.

Disconnect the negative (–) battery terminal using a 10mm wrench.
Wait at least 30 minutes – 1 hour is even safer to drain residual charge.
Reconnect the battery and torque the terminal to 10–12 Nm (snug, not over-tightened).
Start the car. The SRS light may be off now. If it stays off, you got lucky – the fault was just a glitch.
- If the light comes back on after a few seconds or after driving, the fault is still present. Move to Method 1.
Important: Some Hyundai models require a steering wheel position sensor recalibration after a battery disconnect. If your car also shows a steering angle warning light, you may need a scanner to recalibrate it. Sometimes a simple left-to-right full turn driving procedure works, but not always.

Method 3: Replacing the Airbag Control Module (If All Else Fails)

If you’ve confirmed that all circuits, sensors, and wiring are good, but the SRS light still won’t clear, the SRS control module itself may be faulty. This is common on Centennials that have been in a collision – even a minor one – because the module locks permanently after a deployment.

Disconnect the battery and wait 3 minutes.
Locate the SRS control unit – usually under the center console, between the front seats. You may need to remove the center trim panel.
Remove the module, noting the part number (e.g., 95910-3R000).
Send it for reset/refurbishment to a specialized service, or buy a new or rebuilt unit. Refurbished modules usually cost less than new ones.
Install and reconnect everything. After installation, you’ll need a scanner to code the new module to your vehicle’s VIN – or you’ll need to visit a Hyundai dealer for this step.

Common SRS Trouble Codes on Hyundai Centennial

Here’s a quick reference table for the most frequent codes I’ve encountered:

Code	Description	Typical Fix
B1346	Passenger seat belt buckle switch malfunction	Clean/replace buckle connector under seat
B1473	Driver seat belt buckle open circuit	Replace buckle assembly
B1628	Passenger occupant detection sensor fault	Replace seating pad (dealership recommended)
C1627	Clock spring (steering wheel) open circuit	Replace clock spring
B2502	Low battery voltage (historic)	Reset after charging battery

When to Seek Professional Help

You don’t own a compatible scanner and the battery reset fails.
The light returns immediately after clearing the codes.
You smell a powdery odor or see physical damage to an airbag cover (possible previous deployment).
You’re not comfortable removing interior trim or disconnecting SRS components.

A Hyundai dealership or an independent shop with Hyundai-specific software (Hyundai GDS) can perform a full SRS diagnosis and reset. For more insight on choosing the right diagnostic tool for your needs, check out our guide on selecting an SRS-compatible OBD2 scanner.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why won’t my SRS light turn off after a battery reset?

The battery reset only clears volatile memory – it doesn’t remove stored fault codes. The light stays on because the module still detects a problem, like an open circuit in the buckle switch. You must repair the fault first, then use a scanner to clear it.

Can I just pull the bulb or cover the light?

No. Driving with a disabled SRS light is dangerous – the system won’t deploy airbags during a crash. It’s also illegal in many places and will likely cause you to fail vehicle inspection.

How much does it cost to reset the SRS light on a Hyundai Centennial?

DIY using a scanner: $30–$100 one-time tool cost.
Using a mechanic: $80–$200 for diagnosis and reset.
Replacing a faulty part (e.g., clock spring) adds $150–$500.

Will disconnecting the airbag fuse turn off the light?

No. The fuse powers the airbag deployment circuit, not the diagnostic system. Removing the fuse may even trigger a new code.

Can I reset the SRS without a scanner by shorting pins?

Never attempt this. Shorting pins on the SRS diagnostic connector can accidentally deploy airbags or damage the control module. Always use a proper scanner.

My SRS light came on after a jump-start. Is this normal?

Yes – a voltage spike from a jump-start can set a temporary code. Use a scanner to clear it or try the battery disconnect method. If the light stays off, the issue is resolved.

Do I need to recalibrate the steering angle sensor after an SRS reset?

On some Centennial models, disconnecting the battery may affect the steering angle sensor. If you see a separate steering angle warning light, you may need a scanner to recalibrate. A simple driving turn-turn procedure (full lock left, full lock right) sometimes works – but if not, a scan tool is needed. For more details, see our article on Hyundai steering angle sensor calibration.

Final Tip: If your SRS light stays off after a reset but then comes back on after a few days, you likely have an intermittent fault. Check the connectors under the front seats – they’re notorious for corrosion. Use dielectric grease on reconnection to prevent moisture from returning.

About the Author: Erwin Salarda is an Automotive Service Equipment Technician based in the Philippines, specializing in computerized automotive diagnostic equipment such as OBD scanners and wheel alignment systems. Since 2012, he has been actively providing technical support, equipment installation, troubleshooting, after-sales service, and hands-on training for automotive service equipment used by workshops and automotive professionals.

He has received specialized training from international suppliers and manufacturers, including Launch X431 in Shenzhen, China, Lawrence Engineering Company in Guangzhou, China, and 3Excel Wheel Alignment Company in Shenzhen, China. Through these trainings, he developed advanced expertise in automotive diagnostics, calibration, wheel alignment systems, and computerized automotive service technologies.

Erwin Salarda provides professional after-sales support and technical training for automotive diagnostic and wheel alignment equipment, helping clients maximize the performance and proper use of their tools and systems. His experience covers equipment setup, software updates, calibration procedures, troubleshooting, and operational guidance for automotive workshops and service centers.

With more than a decade of experience in the automotive equipment industry, Erwin Salarda continues to support automotive businesses by delivering reliable technical expertise and practical training solutions.

For inquiries and equipment purchases, please visit https://carlifterph.com/

How to Reset SRS Airbag Light on Hyundai Centennial (Equus) | DIY Guide