Resolving the Persistent Airbag Warning Light Issue After Programming with RLink J2534

Resolving the Persistent Airbag Warning Light Issue After Programming with RLink J2534

Issue Description

The vehicle's airbag fault has been repaired, and the airbag control unit has been programmed. However, the airbag warning light on the instrument panel remains illuminated, and the system has not returned to normal operation.

I. Preliminary Preparation Requirements

  1. Prepare a computer pre-installed with OE software and ensure sufficient battery power. Tips: It is recommended to connect the PC to a power source throughout the process to avoid interruptions due to power failure.
  2. Connect the vehicle to a dedicated regulated power supply for programming, maintaining the voltage between 13.2V and 14.5V. Ensure stable power supply is mandatory.
  3. Park the vehicle on a level surface to prevent rolling risks and avoid incorrect identification of tilt sensor data.

Diagnostic & Resolution Steps

  1. Take out the RLink device, connect it to the vehicle's OBD diagnostic port and the computer's USB port respectively, and ensure a secure connection.
  2. After the device is connected successfully, launch the RLink Platform software. Confirm the vehicle connection status through the connection information in the platform and verify if the driver has been downloaded.
    Note: It is recommended to log in to your RLink Platform account to check for software or firmware updates. If updates are available, install them before proceeding with vehicle diagnostics.
  3. Double-click to open the [Techline] diagnostic software.
  4. Select [Launch TLC with administrative privileges], then click [Launch Techline Connect] to start the Techline software.
    Important: If the relevant Techline software is not installed, it will be automatically installed after launching Techline. Since the installation may take a long time, ensure sufficient time is reserved in advance to complete the installation and ensure smooth subsequent operations.
  5. After entering the diagnostic software homepage, click [Connect Vehicle], then select the corresponding driver mode.
  6. From the options, select either [RLink] driver mode or [RLink DOIP] driver mode (both modes are compatible with RLink device connections), then click [Continue] after selection.
    Important: For diagnostic operations on vehicles supporting the DOIP protocol, [RLink DOIP] driver mode must be selected exclusively; otherwise, normal connection cannot be established.
  7. Click the [GDS2] icon to start diagnostics.
  8. Verify the vehicle information is correct, then click [Enter].
  9. Select the [Vehicle Diagnostics] function and click [Enter].
  10. Select [Vehicle DTC Information] > [Enter], read all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and clear them completely.
    Note: This operation ensures that the subsequent matching process is not interfered with by historical DTCs and can proceed smoothly.
  11. After clearing the DTCs, navigate to the location shown in the reference image, select the [Module Diagnostics] option, and press [Enter] to access the vehicle's control module selection page.
  12. Select [K36 Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module] and click [Enter].
  13. Click [Configuration/Reset Functions].
    Note: Before configuring the module, check if the ignition switch is turned on.
  14. Click [Configure New Module] to perform new module configuration. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the configuration. After configuration, return to the DTC page to clear any remaining fault codes.