1. MAB TS
  2. Airbag Module

There is a chime sound inside the car, Could a bad airbag module activate this alarm?

The airbag system and the seat belt reminder system are generally distinct, but they both fall under the umbrella of the vehicle's safety systems.
 
Here's how it typically works:
  1. Airbag Warning: An issue with the airbag system, including a malfunctioning airbag module, will usually trigger the airbag warning light on your dashboard. This is an indicator (often showing an icon of a seated person with an inflated airbag) that there's a malfunction in the airbag system.
  2. Seat Belt Reminder Chime: The continuous chime you're describing is commonly linked with the seat belt reminder system. This chime is designed to alert you when the seat belt isn't fastened, and it can be quite persistent to ensure driver and passenger safety.
  3. Potential Overlap: While the airbag system and seat belt reminder are separate, there can be situations where one system affects the other. For instance, some vehicles might chime or give additional warnings if there's a critical safety issue detected, which could theoretically include a severe airbag malfunction. However, it's more common for these systems to operate independently in terms of warnings and alerts.
 
To address your issue:
 
  • Check Other Triggers: Ensure that all doors are closed securely, and no other warning lights or messages are active. Sometimes, a door ajar or another alert can trigger persistent chimes.
  • Seat Belt Buckle Sensor: The sensor in the seat belt buckle might be malfunctioning, leading the vehicle to think the belt isn't fastened even when it is.
  • Diagnostic Scan: A diagnostic scan using an OBD-II scanner can provide more insight into any logged fault codes, which can help pinpoint the source of the chime and any airbag issues.
 
Given the critical importance of airbags for safety, it's essential to address any warnings or suspicions about malfunction immediately. It's best to consult with a professional mechanic or take the vehicle to a dealership to diagnose and rectify the issue. They will be able to tell you if the airbag issue is causing the chime or if the problems are unrelated.