My husband disconnected the driver's side door air bag when testing the window motor, and now the SRS light is on. Is there a way to get this light to shut off by disconnecting the battery or something? Is my SRS active, or does the light indicate that the side air bags have been deactivated?

2000 ML320

 

Light is ON because SRS self test determined there was a fault.....i,e, no connection.
Need to get SRS reset with a scanner that can read MB body codes. Likely you will have to go to the dealer.
I guess SRS being a major safety system is so designed that ANY fault requires dealer intervention otherwise MB are exposed to all sorts of potential risks from "incorrect" maintenance.
Good question re whether system remains operational.
maybe you could report back on this following your visit to the dealer.
I suspect it will work but don't suggest putting it to the test!!

Learning Point: DO NOT turn the ignition on with any component in the SRS system disconnected.
Stuart