Airbag System Side Airbags

WARNING!
- Airbag components may only be checked, removed, installed and/or repaired by qualified Service Department personnel
- ALL safety precautions specified for driver's and passenger airbags also apply to side airbags.
- Additional seat covers must not be installed as they may interfere with side airbag operation.
- The use of accessory seat cushions or similar devices that could affect the seat occupied sensor 1) and other sensor functions are not permitted.
- For replacements, use only original equipment seat covers (upholstery) intended for use with side airbags. These are identified by a sewn-on "AIRBAG" label.
- When installing, the seam in the area of the side airbag must be straight and not distorted.
- Always replace all upholstery clips (metal or plastic clips).
- Use only original equipment upholstery clips.
- Upholstery clips must only be installed in the original positions.
1) The seat occupied sensor mat is not installed on the driver's seat.

WARNING!
- Damaged seat covers (e.g. ripped, torn, or burned by ash) must be replaced, otherwise side airbag function is affected.
- Affected seat covers must always be replaced after side airbag deployment.
- After a collision where the side airbag was not deployed, all damaged components must be replaced. The side air- bag unit may be reused if not damaged.
- Vehicles not originally equipped with seat heaters are instead equipped with pads that take up the space that would normally be occupied by the seat heating element
- Side airbag units have an expiration date (sticker on the left B-pillar). If airbag units are replaced, pull the sticker with expiration date off the new airbag and place it over the old sticker. Airbag unit and sticker must be replaced after 15 years.
- During airbag deployment, the airbag unit heats up. There is a possibility of burn injuries.