SRS-0005 - Supply voltage too low airbag control unit fault

What does error code SRS-0005 mean in the airbag control unit?

Error code SRS-0005 reports, on Volvo vehicles, that the supply voltage of the airbag control unit is too low, meaning the unit is not receiving sufficient voltage. The control unit stores this fault in the fault memory and switches on the airbag warning light, so the fault in the restraint system is displayed.

A supply voltage that is too low affects the control unit directly, as it draws its voltage from the vehicle's electrical system. The entry remains in the fault memory until the cause has been eliminated.

How do you recognise error code SRS-0005?

You can recognise error code SRS-0005 by the airbag warning light staying on permanently, as the code is stored in the fault memory and cannot be permanently cleared. It is read out with a diagnostic tool, which shows the entry in the airbag control unit's fault memory and so points to the supply voltage being too low.

The airbag warning light stays on permanently for as long as the entry is in the fault memory. Clearing the code without rectifying the cause does not make it permanently disappear.

The entry in the fault memory is the clear indication of the fault, which is why reading it out comes before any further checks.

What causes error code SRS-0005?

Error code SRS-0005 arises when the supply voltage to the airbag control unit is insufficient, for example due to a weak battery or to faulty contacts and cables. Which point is affected cannot be identified from the code alone and requires a detailed check at a specialist workshop.

• A weak or ageing battery that can no longer hold sufficient voltage
• Corroded or loose contacts at the connectors of the power supply
• Damaged power supply cables, for example from moisture or corrosion
• Ageing electronic components or soldered joints in the airbag control unit itself

Whether the battery, the connectors or the control unit is the cause is only shown by checking at a specialist workshop.

In which vehicles does error code SRS-0005 occur?

Error code SRS-0005 is known for the Volvo brand, among others on the models Volvo C40 Series 1, Volvo EX30 Series 1, Volvo EX90 Series 1 and Volvo S90 964. On other vehicles the meaning of the code may differ, and the list of models does not claim to be complete.

All the models named are Volvo vehicles. Whether error code SRS-0005 occurs on a specific vehicle can only be established by reading out the fault memory with a diagnostic tool.

How is error code SRS-0005 resolved?

Error code SRS-0005 is resolved by first reading out the fault memory with a diagnostic tool and then having the connectors and power supply cables checked at a specialist workshop. If the cause lies in the airbag control unit itself, the unit is sent to Airbag24 for repair after removal.

As the code points to the power supply, have the connectors, cables and the condition of the battery checked at a specialist workshop first. Work on the airbag system should be carried out by qualified specialists.

Only once the connectors, cables and battery have been found to show no fault does the airbag control unit come into question as the cause. For removal, you first disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. You then create a repair order online and send the unit in to Airbag24. Inspection, repair and testing usually take 3–4 working days.

The repaired control unit comes back with all vehicle data and is ready for use as soon as it is refitted — no coding or programming is required.