Airbag Fault query, passenger side

[David_H]

Hi guys,

Firstly, this is a great site. Heaps of awesome information, a great way to build my knowledge.

I own a 2002 Golf 2.0 SE. I was driving along the other day and out of no where the airbag warning light came on, and the 'Airbag Fault' message came on and does so every time I start the car.

I took it to VW and they said it needs a new passenger side airbag, at a cost of AUD1,600 plus fitting. I know a little bit about cars and I have had issues with VW before, trying to tell me the car needed things that I knew it didn't, so I am a bit sceptical. I understand it could be any one of a number of issues with this fault.

Does anyone have any advice for me here? I am scared of shelling out $2,000+ when it could be something simple.

Thanks guys,
David

[KWICKS]

I think airbags are scheduled to replaced after 7 years to guarantee they are functional. You'd probably hate to not change it over and then find out you wish you had in an accident.

But someone here with more knowledge than I can correct me. I think I'd be updating rather than paying it! Just trade it rather than knowingly pass this on to someone...