RS4 Hood System Fault: Active Safety + Airbag Alert

I had this exact pedestrian safety system fault on my 2014 S5 last year. The active hood system is a critical car safety feature that deploys in milliseconds if the impact sensors detect a pedestrian collision. The fault typically points to either a failed acceleration sensor or damaged hood actuators. In my case, the front impact sensor had corroded and was sending false signals, triggering the system unnecessarily. The car safety system needs to be in perfect working order since it connects to both the airbag system and hood mechanism. The repair required: Full diagnostic scan, Replacement of corroded impact sensor, Reset of the safety system, Recalibration of hood actuators, Clear fault codes This is definitely not a DIY job due to the complex safety systems involved. The airbag warning light indicates the car sensor network sees this as a serious fault. You will need dealer-level diagnostic equipment to properly reset the system after repairs. My repair was relatively straightforward once properly diagnosed, but leaving it unfixed risks having a non-functional pedestrian protection system or unexpected hood deployment while driving.

Thanks for sharing your experience. This crash detection issue sounds identical to what I dealt with on my RS4. After reading about the sensor replacement and recalibration process, I went ahead with the repairs at a certified shop since these safety systems are too critical to risk a DIY fix. Did you remember roughly what the final cost came out to? Also curious if youve had any other car sensor issues pop up since the repair? My car has been running fine for 6 months now but Im always paranoid about these electronic gremlins coming back.

Thanks for checking back. Since getting the faulty acceleration sensor replaced, my active hood system has worked flawlessly with no car electronics issues. The repair cost came to 315 Euro total, which included the diagnostic work, new impact sensor, and full system recalibration. The hood latch and all related car safety components have stayed problem-free for over a year now. These car sensor systems are quite reliable once properly fixed. Your concern about electronic issues returning is understandable, but in my experience, once the faulty component is replaced and properly calibrated, the problem stays solved. The fact that your RS4 has been running well for 6 months is a good sign that the repair was done correctly. The car safety systems are complex but generally very durable when maintained by qualified technicians using proper diagnostic equipment.

Finally got this sorted out. Took my RS4 to a certified shop last week after researching the collision detection system issue. The mechanic confirmed the faulty impact sensor diagnosis and found some corrosion on the connections. Total bill came to 280 Euro for parts and labor, which included a full safety system diagnostic scan and recalibration. The crash detection system is now working perfectly, no more warning lights or false triggers of the active hood. Really glad I went with a proper shop instead of trying to save money with a general mechanic. These modern car safety systems need specialized diagnostic equipment to get fixed right. The tech showed me the corroded sensor and explained how the whole pedestrian protection system works together. The car feels much better knowing all the safety features are working as designed. Worth every cent for the peace of mind. Will definitely keep an eye on any future sensor issues but hoping this fix lasts for the long run.