Issues

• While diagnosing airbag problems can be quite difficult, Taurus drivers often worry about potential issues due to abnormalities in the display of the airbag indicator light. This light has been reported to flash on and off while the car is in use, seemingly unprovoked. This can be as a result of problems with the airbag itself or the car's internal computer system. The most common and most serious of issues is the failure of deployment of the airbag in the case of a collision.
  
  

Causes

• Airbag problems with the Ford Taurus are recognized by faulty codes in the car's SRS airbag system. If the circuit controlling airbag deployment is improperly grounded, it will cause the indicator light to blink continuously. If the airbag light indicator blinks along with the horn and cruise control indicator, there is also a possibility that the spiral cable in the steering wheel is also grounded.
  
  

Repair

• The blinking indicator light warns of a problem in the system itself, and as a result disables the deployment of the airbag. The airbag will not inappropriately deploy while driving, but it will also not deploy in the event of a collision or accident. Repairs to the airbag system typically consist of code resetting and troubleshooting the clock spring assembly located under the steering wheel.
  
  

Cost

• Fixing the Taurus's airbag problems can be moderately expensive, with the parts used for replacement falling in the $200 to $400 range, as of 2009, and labor charges typically in the same price range. Because of this, some businesses selling car parts and accessories carry used airbag systems, which are relatively cheaper but still perform with quality and precision.
  
  

Effects

• Airbags add an additional level of safety to automobiles, working with seat belts and other safety devices within the car to decrease chance of bodily harm in the event of an accident. While a faulty airbag system does not necessarily present your car with any issues in terms of everyday driving, it could put you at increased risk of injury in a crash. It is recommended to have your airbags checked as part of routine maintenance and at the first sign of any problems, such as flashing indicator lights on the Taurus's dashboard, to ensure you are not putting your safety at risk.