Air Bag Systems: Service and Repair

Maintenance Items:

1. Check "AIR BAG" warning lamp operation

After turning the ignition switch ON, "AIR BAG" warning lamp illuminates. The "AIR BAG" warning lamp will turn off after about 7 seconds if no malfunction is detected. If any of the following "AIR BAG" warning lamp conditions occur, immediately check the air bag system. Refer to "TROUBLE DIAGNOSES - Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)", "SRS Operation Check".
- The warning lamp does not illuminate when the ignition switch is turned ON.
- The warning lamp does not turn off about 7 seconds after the ignition switch is turned ON.
- The warning lamp turns on or blinks about 7 seconds after the ignition switch is turned ON.

2. Visually check SRS components

A. Diagnosis sensor unit
- Check diagnosis sensor unit and bracket for dents, cracks and deformities.
- Check connectors for damage and terminals for deformities.

B. Air bag module and steering wheel
- Remove air bag module from steering wheel or instrument panel. Check harness cover and connectors for damage, terminals for deformities, and harness for binding.
- Install driver air bag module in steering wheel to check fit and alignment with the wheel.
- Check steering wheel for excessive free play.
- Install passenger air bag module in instrument panel to check fit and alignment with the instrument panel.

C. Spiral cable
- Check spiral cable for dents, cracks, and deformities.
- Check connectors and protective tape for damage.
- Check steering wheel for noise, binding and heavy operation.

D. Main harness and air bag harness
- Check connectors for poor connections, damage, and terminals for deformities.
- Check harnesses for binding, chafing and cuts.

CAUTION: Replace previously used special bolts and ground bolt with new ones.