I started smelling burning electrical about a mile from the house today.
The warmest item is a box 6 X 6 X 1 1/2 with a blue cover to the right of the steering column just under the dash.

I have had a flashing air bag light with code for a year but other issues took priority. Code was 3-2 flashes so I replaced the clock spring. Then it changed to 3-4. During recent months, 5-1. After the smell this morning the airbag/seat belt light stays on constantly while driving.

A dealer told me several months ago 5-1 was a blown fuse inside the air bag module.

No wiring changes or anything has been done so I am guessing fried electronics, air bag.

What are you thoughts please?

 

Once the magic smoke comes out, you can't put it back.

Seriously though, anytime you deal with that odor, the likelihood of it being anything short of a replacement electronic component is slim to none. Once in a great while you will find a wiring issue but that typically won't stop smelling because the insulation that has melted/burned remains exposed.

 

No Chernobyl meltdown is the good news after letting it sit four hours and running another errand. The frying is over, the stink lingers but no more magic smoke escaping. Hot day, went to Max A/C and the odor did not get worse. Cruise and horn still work. Now to find another module.

 

Look what I found...he also had code 5-1.
YouTube - ‪Ford Airbag Diagnostic Monitor repair‬‏

I could do this also. However I see several capacitors on the board and suspect 17 Summers got mine just as it did my PCM.

 

Old circuit board components. Ugh! Too much of a reminder for me. Think I spent 10 years rebuilding theatrical dimming and control consoles. I think I'd rather have a root canal. But then age and elements are the classic component killers when it come to electronics

 

55 $ and your gambeling with your life lol

 

So will this be same song second verse? I never found a PCM, got it repaired and it works great. Now I need an air bag diagnostic module. Any repair places to suggest?

I'm guessing the essence of magic smoke will dissipate and the air bag light will burn our before the sugar pack in front of it has degradation.