Xsara Airbag Light

VLL · Unread post by **VLL** » 15 May 2004, 00:34

My dads got a 2000 Xsara SX HDI, the airbag light has started flashing this week for no reason.
A mate of mine with a VW Golf has the OBD adaptor and VAG.com software that allows him to clear faults like this from his car which he has done in the past.
I've located the OBD port under the right hand side dash panel and my mates adaptor fits but obviously the VW software wont read a Citroen ECU although it knows theres something there but just cant read it.
So the question is, does anyone know of any software to read Citroen ECU's through the OBD port from a laptop?
I've got all my fingers and all my toes crossed because its a long way to the nearest Citroen or Pug dealer from his house.
Thanks

AndersDK · Unread post by **AndersDK** » 15 May 2004, 00:46

Sounds really bothersome to me [:p]
You're trying to read out any fault code as to why the airbag light flashes.
Instead try some simple checks to find the cause of the problem.
From other Citroen models it's known that the seat sensor switch wirings fails (shears). Then it's a simple matter re-connecting wires using crimp on pigtails or connectors.
It's safest to first disconnect battery for at least half an hour to discharge any Airbag/safety controlling electronics circuits, before fiddling with the safety system.
Remember then to have your radio & any alarm codes recorded, before disconnecting battery.

VLL · Unread post by **VLL** » 15 May 2004, 01:53

Thanks for the quick reply, I have the car here so am away to have a look under the seats.
But out of curiosity, does anyone know of any software that lets you read fault codes?

VLL · Unread post by **VLL** » 15 May 2004, 02:02

Problem solved, checked the 3 connectors under each seat, one of them gave a little click when squeezed and the lights off now.
Just phoned my dad to tell him and he says he noticed the wires when he was hoovering the car earlier this week...just about the time the light started flashing (DOH)
Thanks for the help Anders

David Goddard · Unread post by **David Goddard** » 15 May 2004, 05:17

I understand that you need the special Citroen system and software due to most European makers using non-standard protocols and wiring. Apparently its much better in the States where they have only 2 protocols and you can buy a cheapish interface and software for PC's.