If airbags are not in the proper operating position, what will occur?

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Airbag systems constantly monitor themselves to ensure the bags and their sensors are in proper condition and position. If an airbag isn’t correctly positioned, the system detects a fault and lights up a warning indicator on the dashboard. That warning light staying on is the clear signal that the airbag system isn’t ready to protect you and needs to be checked by a technician.

Airbags don’t lock the steering wheel simply because they’re out of position, and they don’t automatically deploy just from a misalignment. They also don’t automatically tighten seat belts in response to mispositioned airbags. The warning light is the system’s way of saying, in plain terms, there’s a fault that requires service before driving further. If you see that light, have the airbag system inspected promptly to ensure it will function properly in a crash.