My dads max started doing this. Putting the SRS computer in diagnostic mode did not eliminate the code. The dealer did a diagnostic ($100) and said he recommended the RH side airbag module be replaced. I looked up TSBs and found this for 1998-99 maximas:

00-043 SRS - Warning Lamp Flashing/Code DA or 7A Set
install a SRS side air bag module of the type indicated in the Parts Information section of this bulletin to resolve this incident. This new side air bag module (with long harness) replaces both the air bag module and the seat sub-harness.

Has anyone successfully gotten the dealer to do a TSB for free? Airbags are definitely not something I want to try to fix given that a botched install may mean disaster in an accident. The dealer wants $500 for the install BTW.

Any input appreciated!

 

The dealer said there was nothing wrong with mine, just a failsafe that Nissan put in there when you reach a certain milege.

But he could be wrong.....

He got it to go off for a little while, but it came right back on.

BTW, reseting the ECU does nothing for me.

 

As part of the SRS system, you have to try to reset it via the SRS computer (ie. open door, turn ignition to "on", press rubber door open button 5 times within 7 seconds of turning to "on" (this puts computer into diagnostic mode), turn ignition "off".

So you just left it flashing? That would bug the heck out of me... plus knowing that the system is a least partially inoperative.

 

I don't know that much about the srs system.

I'll try the reset thing that you just showed me, and I'll get back to ya!

 

Hey Mishmosh. My 98 Max has been doing that since I bought it 5 months ago. I have tried the resets, via the door button method, to no avail, it shows the same codes(s) that you got, except mine is for both modules. I had the dealer reset it during my tune up, it lasted 2 days, now it is back. You are right about the tsb's. To me, if they say that the harness needs to be replaced with a longer one, because the shorter one is causing the error code, that should be either a recall issue, or a Transport Canada (or the equivalent US version)! issue, due to a safety issue. My dealer declined the request to do it for free (ha ha). If you have any luck, or additional info on having this covered, let all of Maxima.org know....because this is a common complaint.
Phil

 

Yeah, it really sucks when a mfg issues a TSB, ie. fix for a common complaint, which clearly pinpoints a faulty part yet doesn't issue a recall or extend warrantee for it. I told my dad to bring the TSB with him to see if he could talk the dealer into a freebie. I doubt it though... At least the side air bags aren't as important but they sure do cost a lot!

 

I'm having the same problem Does anyone have the full tsb in either text or a .pdf file? It would be helpful to see exactly what it states. Also, does anyone know the cost of repair? I am not only going nuts, but if I ever want to sell the car, the repair will need to be done! Safety is another concern. I personally think this should be a recall, as safety devices are involved and the problem is not issolated!

 

The dealer quoted my dad: new RF side airbag module $490.

 

That TSB would be most helpful. Any luck in finding it? i'll keep my eyes open for it as well.

 

Here's what i found. Basically just find your year and read away. Not the best, but it's a start.

http://www.geocities.com/jgadlage/tsb.html

 

Thanks for that info. I got my airbag light to go off!

Dan

 

Don't get too excited. This worked a few times for me, but no more. Your only delaying the enevitable...

 

Agreed. Unlike the ECU, I don't think the SRS system has spurious codes. I think something was wrong with the system that will ultimately need attention. Like the ECU though, once a code is stored, it may continue to light the airbag light even though the condition was transient--but like a lot of things, it may just be intermittently failing before it dies completely.

I'll see my dad today to see how his trip to the dealer went this week. I just wonder how many reports you would need before a TSB becomes a recall, dammit! Anyways, even though this is not my car, I'm ****ed! If my dad gets shorted by nissan, this is the last one I will buy! You would think that if we were talking about the front airbags instead of the sides, you would see a recall happen.