FAQ
TL;DR: In a 2001 Astra G, a 3.05 V key battery still showed intermittent remote; "Sure it can."—the lock core can be rebuilt to keep one key. [Elektroda, oktawian89, post #16876201]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Astra G owners fix ignition/central locking mismatches and an airbag light without chasing dead ends.
Quick-Facts
- Rekey fix: transfer the latches/wafers from the old cylinder into the replacement to keep your original key. [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16875434]
- Remote check: LED can light even when range is unreliable; measured battery was 3.05 V in this case. [Elektroda, biedrek1, post #16875913]
- Central locking glitches often trace to driver-door limit/microswitch faults. [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16876366]
- SRS light needs proper diagnostics (e.g., OP-COM); generic OBD readers miss airbag codes. [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16876776]
- Final resolution reported: cleaning contacts/connectors restored proper operation. [Elektroda, biedrek1, post #17898988]
Quick Facts
- Rekey fix: transfer the latches/wafers from the old cylinder into the replacement to keep your original key. [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16875434]
- Remote check: LED can light even when range is unreliable; measured battery was 3.05 V in this case. [Elektroda, biedrek1, post #16875913]
- Central locking glitches often trace to driver-door limit/microswitch faults. [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16876366]
- SRS light needs proper diagnostics (e.g., OP-COM); generic OBD readers miss airbag codes. [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16876776]
- Final resolution reported: cleaning contacts/connectors restored proper operation. [Elektroda, biedrek1, post #17898988]
How do I keep one key after replacing the Astra G ignition switch?
Move the old cylinder’s latches/wafers into the replacement sleeve. The ignition will then work with your original door key. This mechanical rekey avoids carrying two keys and preserves central locking convenience. A locksmith or experienced DIYer can do it with care. "Transfer all the latches from the old cylinder to the new one." [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16875434]
My remote’s LED lights but range is flaky—what should I check first?
Verify the key battery voltage and inspect the remote PCB for cracked solder or chipped components. In the case discussed, the battery measured 3.05 V, yet a damaged internal plate caused intermittent response. Reflow or replace damaged parts after testing. [Elektroda, biedrek1, post #16875913]
Why does my central locking sometimes close but not open?
Faulty limit/microswitches in the driver’s door lock can confuse the control logic. The car may register only one direction and ignore the other. Inspect, clean, and test the switches; replace the lock module if wear is evident. [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16876366]
Can the replacement ignition sleeve be disassembled to swap the guts?
Yes. The replacement sleeve can be disassembled so you can transplant the internals and match your original key. This enables a one-key solution for doors and ignition after the metal pin failure. [Elektroda, oktawian89, post #16876201]
Which diagnostic tool reads Astra G airbag (SRS) faults correctly?
Use OP-COM or equivalent capable of SRS modules. Cheap generic OBD readers often won’t see airbag codes. Read, fix the cause, then clear stored faults after repair. [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16876776]
Airbag light on: does the system still work?
Treat an illuminated SRS lamp as a malfunction indicator. Do not assume airbags will deploy. Schedule diagnostics and repair before driving further. "That’s what it shines to inform you about a malfunction." [Elektroda, Strumien swiadomosci swia, post #16877434]
What common cause triggers the Astra G airbag light after seat movement?
Loose or oxidized connectors under the front seats often trigger the SRS lamp. Movement or bumps can worsen contact issues. Reseat and clean the connectors, then clear the stored fault with proper equipment. [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16876776]
What actually fixed the intermittent remote and SRS light in this case?
Cleaning electrical contacts/connectors resolved the issues. After cleaning, the poster reported the problem disappeared. Good contact hygiene can restore both remote reliability and SRS integrity. [Elektroda, biedrek1, post #17898988]
How do I diagnose intermittent central locking in three quick steps?
- Verify remote battery voltage and LED response.
- Inspect driver-door lock limit switches for wear and contamination.
- Clean connectors and retest; replace the lock module if faults persist. [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16876366]
My OBD scanner shows no errors, but the airbag light stays on—why?
Generic OBD tools often can’t access SRS. The light can persist even with no powertrain codes. Use OP-COM to read and clear SRS faults after you fix the wiring or connector issue. [Elektroda, bubu1769, post #16876776]
Edge case: the light briefly goes out after startup, then returns—what does that mean?
The SRS controller runs a self-test at key-on. A momentary extinguish followed by re-illumination points to a stored or intermittent fault. Inspect under-seat connectors and clear codes after repair. [Elektroda, biedrek1, post #16876530]
What’s the simplest reliability upgrade after rekeying the ignition?
Have a specialist inspect and repair the key fob PCB for cracked plates or joints. In the discussed case, fixing a chipped plate restored consistent remote operation. [Elektroda, biedrek1, post #16876530]
After the weekend, I have to show up at a car repair shop. I moved the ankle under the seat, pressed it, etc. No changes. I wonder if this light is on, will the pillow work if necessary?
