A deactivated or missing original equipment driver's airbag is an automatic MOT failure. Under UK MOT testing regulations, if a car was originally fitted with airbags as standard equipment, they must be present and fully operational.
Removing an airbag from a Morgan Plus Four is highly discouraged.
It will trigger a permanent warning light, which causes an automatic MOT failure.
It also invalidates your insurance policy and leaves you without critical crash protection, potentially risking serious injury from accidental deployment during removal.
1. Insurance ImplicationsMost insurance providers explicitly require the vehicle to retain its factory-standard safety equipment. If you remove the airbag without prior notification, you run the risk of having your policy voided in the event of an accident. You must always ask your insurer first.
2. Legal and MOT Consequences While driving without an airbag isn't universally illegal in the UK, it is inextricably linked to the vehicle's roadworthiness. The MOT test requires the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) warning light to operate normally (turning on, then off after a few seconds). A permanently illuminated light signals a major safety defect and guarantees a failure.
3. Electrical and Mechanical HazardsModern Plus Fours feature tightly integrated Supplemental Restraint Systems. Removing the airbag can cause multiple knock-on effects:
Fault Codes: The ECU will register an open circuit in the SRS, triggering dashboard warning lights.
System Disablement: Disconnecting one part of the SRS can fault the entire module, preventing other remaining safety systems (such as seatbelt pre-tensioners) from deploying.
Accidental Deployment: Handling explosive airbag modules requires specialized training. Careless removal poses a significant risk of accidental deployment and severe injury.
Last edited by JohnHarris; 18/07/26 09:50 AM.
