If a shop told you your airbag module is “locked” or “secured” and has to be replaced — not reset — it is worth a second look. On a lot of newer vehicles that is not actually true. Secured modules can usually still be reset; they just need the right process, which is exactly the part a general shop tends to skip.
What “secured” actually means
On most vehicles from roughly 2015 on, manufacturers began locking the airbag (SRS) control module so its data cannot be freely read or cleared without proper authorization and tooling. That is the “secured” part — a security layer, not physical damage. A secured module behaves like any other after a crash: it stores a permanent crash record, sets hard codes, and keeps the airbag light on until that data is cleared. The only difference is that clearing it takes a specialized, authorized process rather than a plug-in-and-wipe. So “secured” does not mean “must replace.” It means “needs the right key to reset.”
Why this trips people up
Because secured modules need that extra step, many shops — even good ones — will simply tell you to buy a new module and have it programmed. It is the path of least resistance for them. But replacing a module you did not need to replace is often the most expensive way out: you pay for the part and the programming, when a reset of your original module would have returned it ready to arm. The honest test is simple: if your module only stored crash data after a deployment and is not physically damaged, a reset is usually on the table — secured or not.
Which vehicles tend to have secured modules
Secured SRS modules show up most on newer builds. LockNCal maintains a current list of the secured modules we can reset — right now it covers 12 makes, model years roughly 2015 and up, weighted toward:
- Mazda, Subaru, Toyota, Volvo, and Land Rover (the most common in our data)
- Tesla and Ford
- A growing set of newer EV brands (Geely, BYD, Lotus, Polestar, Togg)
Here is our current secured SRS module coverage by make and model. If your vehicle is not listed, it may still be resettable — or it may not be a secured type at all — so just ask.
| Make | Models we cover | Years | Reset by LockNCal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda | 2, CX-5, CX-7, CX-9, CX-50, CX-60, MX-5 Miata | 2016+ | Yes |
| Subaru | BRZ, Crosstrek, Forester, Legacy, Outback, WRX | 2015+ | Yes |
| Volvo | EX30, V60, XC40, XC60 | 2016+ | Yes |
| Land Rover | Defender, Discovery, Range Rover, Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Velar | 2016+ | Yes |
| Toyota | Auris, Corolla / Corolla Verso, Land Cruiser, Yaris / Yaris Verso / FunCargo | 2019+ | Yes |
| Tesla | Model 3, Cybertruck (more on request) | 2015+ | Yes |
| Ford | Escape, Focus, Maverick | 2018+ | Yes |
| Geely | All models | 2016+ | Yes |
| Polestar, Lotus, BYD, Togg | Select models — contact to confirm | — | Yes |
We confirm the exact OEM part number for your specific vehicle when you book — it is not published here. New to this? See our guide to finding your airbag module part number.
This list grows as we add data, so it is not every vehicle — but it covers the makes where “secured” comes up most. Do not see your vehicle? That often means your module is not a secured type (which can make the reset simpler, not harder). Send us your year, make, and model and we will confirm either way.
Can a secured airbag module be reset?
In most cases, yes. With the correct tooling and authorized access, a secured module’s crash data and hard codes can be cleared and the original module returned to a like-new, ready-to-arm state — no new part, no dealer programming. LockNCal resets secured SRS modules both by nationwide mail-in and on-site across Dallas–Fort Worth. (As always: a module is reset or replaced, never “repaired.”) The times a reset is not the answer are the obvious ones — the module is physically cracked, water-damaged, or missing. Then a replacement, matched to your part number and programmed to your VIN, is the correct route.
Frequently asked questions
Can a secured airbag module be reset?
Usually, yes. “Secured” is a lock on the module’s data, not physical damage. With the right authorized tooling, the crash data and hard codes can be cleared and your original module reused — no replacement needed unless it is physically damaged.
Is a “secured” module the same as a “locked” module?
Yes — different words for the same thing. It means the module’s data is protected and needs an authorized process to read or clear.
Which cars have secured airbag modules?
Mostly newer vehicles (roughly 2015 and up). It is especially common on Mazda, Subaru, Toyota, Volvo, and Land Rover, on Tesla and Ford, and on several newer EV brands.
Do I have to replace a secured module?
Not usually. If it only stored crash data and is not damaged, a reset returns your original module ready to arm — typically far cheaper than a new part plus programming.
Told your module is “locked” and has to be replaced? Before you buy a new one, let LockNCal check whether it can simply be reset. We reset secured SRS modules by nationwide mail-in (crash data cleared, returned ready to arm, free shipping) and on-site across Dallas–Fort Worth. Start a mail-in reset or see all vehicle safety system services. Pricing confirmed up front — call (469) 277-7277.
