2021-2025 Ford Bronco Passenger Airbag: SRS Light Causes and Recall Guide

The SRS Warning Light: Your First and Only Warning

The most important indicator of an issue with your Bronco's airbag system is the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) warning light on your instrument cluster. This light, which may show an icon of a person with an airbag or the letters 'SRS', performs a self-check every time you start the vehicle, illuminating for a few seconds before turning off.

Ignoring the light puts you and your passengers at significant risk. Some owners have reported the FordPass app displays a message stating it is "safe to drive WITHOUT A PASSENGER" when a passenger-side fault is detected.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

The 6th generation Bronco has been subject to specific recalls and service bulletins related to its airbag systems.

NHTSA Recall 25V-396 (Ford Recall 25C27)

This recall affects 2,272 Ford Broncos from the 2025 model year. The issue is that the active vent flap on the passenger side airbag may not open as intended during deployment. This is caused by a plastic flange that can break, preventing the airbag's internal pressure from decreasing as designed. The result is an overly firm airbag that can increase the risk of injury to the passenger during a crash. The remedy provided by Ford is to have dealers replace the entire passenger airbag module free of charge.

2021 Model Year Passenger Airbag Recall

A smaller recall was issued for 553 Broncos from the 2021 model year. On these vehicles, the passenger-side airbag may have been folded incorrectly during manufacturing, which could lead to improper deployment in a crash. The fix for this issue was also a complete replacement of the passenger airbag module by a Ford dealer.

TSB 21-2297: Airbag Light from Side Airbag Connector

For some 2021 Bronco models, an illuminated airbag warning light (with diagnostic trouble codes B1404:13 or B1407:13) may be caused by a poor connection between the wiring harness and a side airbag module. While this TSB does not apply to the passenger dashboard airbag itself, it highlights that the SRS light can be triggered by faults in various parts of the system.

Symptoms of a Faulty Airbag Module

Aside from a collision where the airbag fails to deploy, the only symptom of a faulty airbag module is the SRS warning light on the dashboard.

• Persistent SRS Warning Light: The light stays on continuously after the initial startup check.
• Intermittent SRS Warning Light: The light may turn on and off randomly. This can be caused by a loose connection. Some Bronco owners have traced this issue to the large electrical connector for the removable doors becoming loose, especially after off-roading. If you have recently had your doors off, checking this connection is a good first step.

Buying a Used 2021-2025 Bronco Airbag: What to Look For

Buying a used OEM airbag can be a cost-effective solution, but it requires extreme caution. This is a critical safety device, and its history is paramount.

• Verify Compatibility: This airbag module is for the full-size Ford Bronco only and will NOT fit the Bronco Sport. Part numbers have also changed during production. Part M2DZ-78044A74-B is generally for 2021-2022 models, while M2DZ-78044A74-C is for 2022-2025 models. Always confirm the part number with the seller and, if possible, provide your vehicle's VIN to ensure a perfect match.
• Source is Everything: Only purchase used SRS components from reputable, professional auto recyclers who have processes for inspecting and handling these parts. Never buy an airbag from a private seller on a marketplace if you cannot verify its history.
• Physical Inspection: Carefully inspect the airbag module for any signs of damage. Look for cut or spliced wires, cracks in the plastic housing, and any indication of water damage or corrosion. The electrical connector pins should be perfectly straight and clean.
• Red Flags: NEVER purchase an airbag that shows any signs of prior deployment. This includes stress marks on the housing or a partially torn cover. Do not buy a part that was stored improperly or comes from a vehicle with a salvage title due to flood damage.
• Dashboard Cover Not Included: This part is the airbag module only. The dashboard cover or trim piece that the airbag deploys through is a separate component and is not included.

Replacement Cost Comparison

Replacing a passenger airbag is a significant expense, primarily due to the cost of the OEM part and the labor-intensive process of accessing it within the dashboard.

Professional Installation: This is Not a DIY Job

Why Professional Installation is Required

• Safety Risk: Airbags contain an explosive charge. Static electricity or improper handling can trigger deployment.
• Specialized Tools: Removing the dashboard and other interior components without causing damage requires specific tools and experience.
• System Recalibration: After the new airbag is installed, the SRS control module must be scanned with a professional tool, like the Ford IDS, to clear any stored crash data or fault codes. Simply disconnecting the battery is not sufficient to reset the system in modern vehicles.

Legal and Liability Risks of DIY Installation

Installing an airbag yourself, or having an unqualified person do it, carries significant legal risk. If the vehicle is later involved in an accident and the airbag malfunctions or fails to deploy, the person who performed the installation could be held liable for resulting injuries. Federal law does not prohibit the sale of a used car with a deployed airbag, but state laws may vary, and the liability risk is substantial. For your safety and legal protection, always use a professional service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)