Component
AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
6 NHTSA complaints about air bags: air bag/restraint control module:software issues across 4 makes and 5 models.
The air bags: air bag/restraint control module:software is one of the standardized component categories NHTSA uses to classify consumer safety complaints. Across the public complaint database, it accounts for 6 filings from 4 manufacturers and 5 distinct vehicle models, a footprint large enough that defect engineers can isolate part-family patterns across different platforms that share the same supplier or the same federal motor vehicle safety standard.
Among filings citing this component, owners have reported 0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, and 0 fatalities. The most complained-about vehicle in this category is the TESLA MODEL 3 with 2 filings, followed by HONDA ACCORD HYBRID and FORD RANGER. These severity counters are what separates a nuisance complaint trend from a pattern NHTSA is likely to escalate into a Preliminary Evaluation.
Component-level analysis is how the Office of Defects Investigation spots cross-manufacturer supplier issues — the same airbag inflator, the same takata-style ignition switch, the same brake hose material — before they become industry-wide recalls. When you see a single component accumulating large complaint volume across several unrelated nameplates, that is usually a signature of a shared supplier or a shared federal standard being stressed by real-world conditions. Use the affected-vehicles table below to see whether the pattern is concentrated on a handful of models or distributed evenly, and cross-reference each model's full recall and investigation history before drawing conclusions about any one nameplate.
Most Affected Vehicles
| # | Vehicle | Complaints |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | TESLA MODEL 3 | 2 |
| 2 | HONDA ACCORD HYBRID | 1 |
| 3 | FORD RANGER | 1 |
| 4 | FORD FUSION | 1 |
| 5 | BMW I5 | 1 |
Recent Complaints
The contact owns a 2024 BMW i5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V104000 (Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The contact stated that when the
The contact owns a 2018 Tesla Model 3. The contact stated while driving at approximately 35 MPH, the Front Passenger Safety Restraint System (FPSRS) fault warning illuminated. The contact continued dr
The contact owns a 2011 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagno
The contact owns a 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in for routine maintenance a diagnostic examination was performed which revealed the airbag supplemental rest
2016 FORD FUSION. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AN ISSUE WITH THE BODY CONTROL MODULE. THE CONSUMER STATED IN 80 DEGREE WEATHER THE WINDOWS WOULD NOT ROLL DOWN AND THE A/C WAS INOPERABLE. ON SEPARATE
The contact owns a 2018 Tesla Model 3. The contact stated while entering and starting the vehicle, the front driver side safety retrains fault message was displayed on the screen. The air bag warning
Related Vehicle Components
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many complaints involve air bags: air bag/restraint control module:software issues? ▼
How dangerous are air bags: air bag/restraint control module:software defects? ▼
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Data Sources
Vehicle complaint data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complaints database. Includes consumer-reported safety issues filed with NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Severity counts cross-reference NHTSA FARS (Fatality Analysis Reporting System) for fatal incidents where a corresponding FARS record exists.
Component categories are standardized by NHTSA. Crash-test ratings where shown are drawn from the NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Complaint counts, crash reports, fire reports, and fatality data reflect consumer-submitted reports and may not represent all incidents.
Disclaimer: This data is for informational purposes only and should not be used as the sole basis for vehicle purchase decisions. NHTSA complaint data is self-reported by consumers and has not been verified or investigated. A high complaint count does not necessarily indicate a defect. Always consult a qualified mechanic and check official NHTSA recall notices before making safety-related decisions.
Read our methodology — how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.