Airbag Disabling Guide for Mk2 Clio Owners
Author: DennisV6
Date: 02/03/2007
Introduction
This guide is specifically for Mk2 Clio owners who wish to disable the airbag system and its associated warning lights after an airbag or pretensioner has been activated. The methods detailed below will help clear the warning lights, but proceed with caution, as tampering with airbags can be dangerous. Always prioritize safety.
If your airbag or pretensioner has gone off, you may have a few options for dealing with the warning light:
The Mk2 Clio airbag system detects whether the airbags are connected by measuring the resistance in the airbag wiring. If the resistance falls within a certain range, the system doesn’t trigger a warning light. However, if an airbag or pretensioner is removed or activated, the system will throw a warning light unless it is tricked with a resistor.
Here are the resistor values needed to simulate the presence of the airbags:
If you own a Clio 172 Cup without side airbags, you won’t have issues with warning lights when swapping seats, as long as you leave the seat belts plugged in. If you're removing side airbags for aftermarket seats, you can either use resistors as explained above or ask your Renault dealer to reprogram the airbag system to recognize no side airbags. Note: Many dealers may refuse to do this.
If you plan to swap out your standard seatbelts for harnesses, here are the steps:
Many Mk2 Clio owners experience SERV and AIRBAG lights due to poor connections under the seats, which can cause resistance readings higher than 4 Ohms. To fix this:
Disabling the airbag system and clearing warning lights is possible with the right tools and knowledge. This guide provides a basic outline, but please remember that airbags are a critical safety feature. Always prioritize your safety and consult a professional if you're unsure.
Original Author: DennisV6
Date: 02/03/2007
Author: DennisV6
Date: 02/03/2007
Introduction
This guide is specifically for Mk2 Clio owners who wish to disable the airbag system and its associated warning lights after an airbag or pretensioner has been activated. The methods detailed below will help clear the warning lights, but proceed with caution, as tampering with airbags can be dangerous. Always prioritize safety.
Parts Required:
- 4 x 3.3 Ohm resistors (carbon film, 1/2W, 5%) – These can be purchased from electronics specialists like Maplin.
Options to Disable the Dash Warning Light:
If your airbag or pretensioner has gone off, you may have a few options for dealing with the warning light:
- Replace the Airbag Module: This can cost anywhere from £150 to £350, depending on your model. You'll also need to get the module programmed at Renault and replace the side impact sensors.
- Use Resistors in the Loom: A cheaper and DIY option is to use resistors to trick the airbag system into thinking the airbags are still present.
How the System Works:
The Mk2 Clio airbag system detects whether the airbags are connected by measuring the resistance in the airbag wiring. If the resistance falls within a certain range, the system doesn’t trigger a warning light. However, if an airbag or pretensioner is removed or activated, the system will throw a warning light unless it is tricked with a resistor.
Here are the resistor values needed to simulate the presence of the airbags:
- Driver’s Airbag: 1.8 to 6.2 Ohms.
- Passenger Airbag: 1.8 to 4 Ohms.
- Side Airbags: 1.8 to 4 Ohms.
- Pretensioners: 1.8 to 4 Ohms.
Steps to Disable Airbags and Clear Warning Light:
Driver’s Side:
- Driver’s Airbag: You'll need two resistors (one for each line). Find the orange and grey wires from the cruise control/airbag connector, then install the resistors between these wires.
- Driver’s Pretensioner: Under the driver’s seat, connect resistors to the orange and brown wires on the pretensioner.
Passenger’s Side:
- Passenger’s Airbag: Similarly, use two resistors and connect them to the orange, brown, blue, and green wires from the airbag connector.
- Passenger’s Pretensioner: Under the passenger seat, connect resistors to the orange and brown wires from the pretensioner.
For Clio 172 Cup Owners:
If you own a Clio 172 Cup without side airbags, you won’t have issues with warning lights when swapping seats, as long as you leave the seat belts plugged in. If you're removing side airbags for aftermarket seats, you can either use resistors as explained above or ask your Renault dealer to reprogram the airbag system to recognize no side airbags. Note: Many dealers may refuse to do this.
Swapping Seatbelts for Harnesses:
If you plan to swap out your standard seatbelts for harnesses, here are the steps:
- Option 1: Remove the seatbelt buckle entirely and install a resistor in the wiring loom.
- Option 2: Keep the regular buckle in place and either:
- Cut the black wire to make the system think you're always buckled up.
- Or, install a switch on the black wire so that the system only disables the warning light when you're wearing the harness.
Common Issue: SERV & AIRBAG Lights:
Many Mk2 Clio owners experience SERV and AIRBAG lights due to poor connections under the seats, which can cause resistance readings higher than 4 Ohms. To fix this:
- Disconnect the grey connector under the seat.
- For the passenger side, cut and solder the blue and brown wires together, using insulation over the soldered connections.
- For the driver's side, do the same with the blue and brown wires in the grey connector. On facelift models, only the passenger side is typically affected.
Important Notes:
- Airbag systems are essential for safety. Tampering with them can be dangerous, so ensure you take proper precautions or consult a professional.
- Ensure proper voltage: The airbag system requires between 10.5V and 16V to work correctly. A voltage outside this range can trigger a fault.
Conclusion:
Disabling the airbag system and clearing warning lights is possible with the right tools and knowledge. This guide provides a basic outline, but please remember that airbags are a critical safety feature. Always prioritize your safety and consult a professional if you're unsure.
Original Author: DennisV6
Date: 02/03/2007
