What does a crash sensor cost?
How much does a crash sensor cost?
A new crash sensor as a replacement part typically costs between 80 and 200 euros. Installation costs range from 50 to 150 euros depending on the installation location and workshop. The total cost for replacing a crash sensor is therefore 150 to 400 euros – depending on the vehicle brand, model, and sensor position.
Crash sensors (impact sensors) are among the components that can fail in an accident or due to moisture. Since they are safety-critical and the airbag warning light remains on permanently when defective, a faulty sensor must be replaced promptly – otherwise the airbag system will not function and the vehicle will not pass the TÜV inspection.
What costs are involved in replacement?
The costs consist of the replacement part and workshop labor time. Front crash sensors are usually cheaper than side sensors because they are easier to access. For premium brands, parts prices are generally higher than for volume brands.
| Cost factor | Price range | Depends on |
|---|---|---|
| Crash sensor (replacement part) | 80 – 200 € | Brand, model, sensor type |
| Installation (labor time) | 50 – 150 € | Position and accessibility |
| Diagnosis / fault memory | 30 – 80 € | Workshop hourly rate |
| Total cost (one sensor) | 150 – 400 € | All factors combined |
What influences the price?
The price depends on the vehicle brand, sensor type (acceleration, pressure, or structure-borne sound sensor), installation position (front, side, rear), and model year. Side pressure sensors in the door are often more expensive than simple acceleration sensors on the longitudinal member.
| Price factor | Impact | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle brand | High | Premium brands more expensive than volume brands |
| Sensor type | Medium | Pressure sensor more expensive than acceleration sensor |
| Installation position | Medium | Door sensor more complex than front sensor |
| Model year | Medium | Newer sensor technology more complex |
| Original vs. aftermarket | High | OEM always recommended for safety parts |
Why use only original parts?
For crash sensors, we recommend exclusively original parts (OEM) with the correct part number. The sensor must be precisely calibrated to the vehicle's body structure – an incorrectly calibrated sensor can lead to false deployments or failure to deploy the airbags. With safety components, you should not cut corners.
When must the crash sensor be replaced?
A crash sensor must be replaced if it was damaged in an accident, corroded by moisture, causes a fault code in the control unit, or is mechanically defective. Typical symptoms are the airbag warning light and a fault code that directly indicates the affected sensor.
| Cause | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Accident damage | Sensor damaged in impact area | Frequent |
| Moisture / corrosion | Water in door or engine compartment | Frequent |
| Corroded connector | Oxidation on sensor connector | Medium |
| Cable break | Line to sensor interrupted | Medium |
| Aging | Electronic wear over many years | Rare |
How does the replacement process work?
The replacement begins by disconnecting the battery and waiting for capacitor discharge. Then the faulty sensor is located, the connector is disconnected, and the sensor is removed. The new sensor is installed, connected, and the fault memory is cleared. A function test confirms proper operation.
- Disconnect battery: Safety requirement for airbag work
- Waiting time: 10 minutes for capacitor discharge
- Locate sensor: Identify position according to fault code
- Remove trim: Remove door trim for door sensors
- Disconnect connector: Carefully disconnect yellow airbag connector
- Remove sensor: Loosen mounting bolts
- Install new sensor: Mount original replacement part
- Connect connector: Establish secure contact
- Reconnect battery: System starts self-test
- Clear fault memory: Remove old code, warning light must go out
Exact prices for your vehicle
You can find the exact costs for a new crash sensor for your vehicle model in our shop. At Airbag24, you get suitable crash sensors for all brands and models – original quality at a fair price. We're happy to help you select the right sensor.
- All brands: VW, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Opel, Ford, Seat, Skoda, and many more
- All positions: Front, side, and rear sensors
- Original quality: OEM parts with correct part number
- TÜV-safe: For passing the main inspection
Frequently asked questions about crash sensor costs
Here you'll find answers to the most important questions about crash sensor costs.
Does insurance cover the crash sensor?
In the event of an accident not caused by you, the other party's liability insurance covers the cost of replacing damaged crash sensors. In case of your own fault, comprehensive insurance pays. If the defect was caused by aging or moisture (not an accident), the vehicle owner bears the costs.
Can I use a used crash sensor?
We advise against it. A used sensor may have been damaged in a previous impact without any visible signs. For safety components, always use a new original part with the correct part number.
Must all sensors be replaced after an accident?
No, only damaged sensors need to be replaced. Sensors outside the impact area typically remain functional. The workshop checks all sensors after the accident and replaces only the defective ones – this saves unnecessary costs.
Can the connector rather than the sensor be defective?
Yes, that can happen. Corroded or loose connectors cause the same fault code as a defective sensor. A thorough diagnosis checks the connector and cable first before replacing the sensor itself. This can save considerable costs.