VW Bora Hood & Airbag Alert: Safety Sensors Fail

The active hood system fault combined with airbag warnings often points to a failed acceleration impact sensor, which I encountered on my 2000 VW Golf (1.8L). The pedestrian safety system relies on these sensors to trigger the hood lift mechanism during impacts. The repair involves more than just resetting codes. When my car sensor system failed, the entire front impact detection unit needed replacement because the original sensor had corroded internally. The hood latch and actuator mechanisms also required inspection to ensure they hadnt been partially triggered. This isnt a repair to postpone, as it affects critical car safety systems. The crash detection system needs to work properly to maintain pedestrian safety features. My repair included: Full diagnostic scan, Impact sensor replacement, Hood latch actuator inspection, System calibration, Airbag computer reset The job took about 4 hours at the shop. While complex, any certified VW technician with experience in safety systems should be able to handle it. Look for shops with specific training in airbag and crash sensor diagnostics. The fault shouldnt be ignored since it impacts both occupant and pedestrian protection systems. Having the car sensor network properly functioning is essential for maintaining the vehicles safety certification.

Thanks for the detailed explanation. Im dealing with the exact same issue on my 2003 Bora. The hood latch warning and airbag light appeared last week during a routine drive. Your description of the corroded sensor sounds spot on, as my mechanic mentioned similar concerns about the crash detection components. Would you mind sharing what the total repair cost was in your case? Also curious if youve had any recurring issues with the pedestrian safety system since getting it fixed?

Happy to share an update. Following my previous sensor issues on the Golf, I had the acceleration sensor replaced and the safety system has worked flawlessly since then. The total cost came to 315€, which covered both parts and labor for fixing the faulty impact sensor. The collision detection system now functions as intended, with no recurring hood latch warnings or airbag lights. The repair proved to be a permanent solution, and the pedestrian safety features are back to full operational status. One thing worth mentioning is that proper calibration after sensor replacement is crucial. The repair shop needs to ensure all safety system components communicate correctly. Since the fix, my crash detection sensors have remained in perfect working order without any error messages. The initial cost might seem steep, but considering the importance of these safety systems, its worth getting it done right by qualified technicians with proper diagnostic equipment.

After getting the replies, I decided to visit a certified VW workshop to fix the hood latch and airbag warning issues. The mechanic confirmed the faulty impact sensor diagnosis mentioned in the forum and found corrosion in the car electronics, just as expected. The repair took about 5 hours total. They replaced the acceleration sensor, checked all the hood actuators, and recalibrated the entire system. The final bill came to 295€, which included a full diagnostic scan. The crash detection system is now working perfectly, and both warning lights have stayed off. What impressed me most was how thoroughly they tested the pedestrian safety features after the repair. The technician showed me detailed computer readings proving all sensors were communicating correctly. No more system fault warnings since then, and the safety system is back to factory specs. Really glad I went with a certified shop instead of risking it with my usual mechanic. The expertise in handling complex car electronics made a clear difference in the quality of work.