How to reset an airbag light for 97 jetta GL

This is my first post. :banghead:

I have a problem with a 1997 Jetta GL 5 spd. I have recently replaced the instrument cluster with a used one. Everything seems to be working just fine, but the airbag light is on. The mechanic checked for codes and said that there were none. He said the airbag should not be on. He changed it with another instrument cluster he had in the shop to see if the instrument cluster was bad, and it did the same thing.

I have tried unplugging the battery, and had the mechanic try to reset it and it did not work. Also the vehicle has not been in an accident, I had to replace the instrument cluster because the speedometer was not working. Does any one have any ideas on how I can get the light to go away?

Thanks.

The short answer is you need an SRS scan tool to reset the airbag light, not a regular scanner.
Here's the long answer...


Here's a site that will explain everything you need to know about airbag lights and resetting the system.


On most vehicles, the airbag light should come on for @6 seconds, and then go off if the system is working properly. If there is a fault or a problem in the system, the light will remain illuminated, or flash continuously. If the airbag light does not work properly, some vehicles have an audible tone that sounds indicating a problem with the airbag light system. When the light is on (or the tone is sounding), the airbag will NOT deploy, even in an accident. Most systems can only be diagnosed using a scanner designed for the airbag system, however some use flash codes to indicate the problem. The scanners at Auto Zone or the ones that sell for @ $50 will not access the airbag system, only the engine systems (check engine light).


This website gives you the procedure for diagnosing and resetting some systems without a scanner.



Some vehicle manufacturers accommodate that (like Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Infinity, Honda, Acura, Ford, Lincoln, Mazda & Mercury) and some require a scan tool. http://www.airbagsolutions.com/
Check out these websites also for more info on airbag systems and the light.
http://blog.airbagsolutions.com/archive/2007/11/18/why-is-my-airbag-light-on.what-should-i-do.aspx
http://www.airbagsolutions.com/resources.aspx
http://blog.airbagsolutions.com/


Check out this site for information on researching your own vehicle for factory recalls!!!
http://www.airbagsolutions.com/nhtsa.aspx



(http://www.airbagsolutions.com/resources.aspx)