Did the 1998 models have side airbags? Because I know the 2000s do. I'm not so sure about the 1998 models. Look to see if there are little black tags on the side of the seat backs which say "side airbag". That may be your problem. I am not 100% sure, but I don't think Accords had side airbags untill 2000. IF that's the case, your light will stay on all the time. And you will no longer have side airbags.