What is a sign that a vehicle's airbag system may need attention?

When the airbag light stays on while driving, it indicates a potential issue with the airbag system that requires immediate attention. The airbag light is part of the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system, and when it remains illuminated, it signifies that the system has detected a malfunction or a fault. This could mean that the airbags may not deploy in the event of a collision, which significantly increases the risk to the occupants' safety.

In contrast, if the airbag light turns off, it typically indicates that the system has completed its self-check and is functioning properly. A flashing airbag light can suggest that there is a temporary fault being registered, but it is essential to monitor any unusual behavior. Sounds coming from the airbag system are not standard, and would likely require evaluation, but the presence of a constant warning light is a clear and straightforward indicator of a malfunction that should not be ignored.