Attention! Sensor and diagnostic module (SDM) can maintain sufficient voltage to deploy the airbags and pretensioners for 1 minute after the ignition is turned off and the fuse has been removed. If the airbags and pretensioners are not disconnected, do not start service until one minute has passed after disconnecting power from the SDM. If the airbags are disconnected, service can be started immediately, without a one-minute waiting period. Failure to temporarily disable the airbag system (SIR) may result in unexpected airbag deployment, injury, and unnecessary airbag system repairs.
Deactivating the airbags (SIR)
1. Set the steering wheel to the center position.
2. Turn the ignition key to the LOCK position and remove it.
3. Remove the airbag fuse F5 and F6 from the instrument panel fuse box and wait more than one minute for the SIR system capacitor to discharge.
Activating the airbags (SIR)
1. Insert the airbag fuse F5 and F6 into the instrument panel fuse box.
2. Turn the ignition key to the ON position and watch the airbag warning light flash seven times and turn off. If the warning lamp behaves differently, perform the Airbag Diagnostic System Check (SIR), which is discussed in this section.
Attention! When turning the ignition key, keep clear of the airbag modules to avoid injury.
Handling, installation and diagnostics
- Airbag modules should not be exposed to temperatures above 65 degrees Celsius (149 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Do not use an airbag or sensing and diagnostic module (SDM), if they fell from a height of 0.9 m (3 feet) or more.
- When replacing the sensor and diagnostic module (SDM) it must be installed with the arrow on the SDM pointing towards the front of the vehicle.
- It is very important that the SDM is mounted flat on the mounting surface, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle.
- To avoid the occurrence of diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) do not apply power to the airbag system (SIR), if all its components are not connected, except when required by the diagnostic card.
- Any troubleshooting of the airbag system (SIR) you must start by checking the SIR diagnostic system. Airbag Diagnostic System Check (SIR) allows you to verify the correct operation of the airbag warning lamp and determine which diagnostic card should be used to troubleshoot the SIR system. Skipping these procedures can result in increased diagnostic time and erroneous replacement of spare parts.
Repairs and inspections required after an accident
Attention! Any structural repairs to the vehicle must return it to its original factory configuration. After the airbags have deployed, it is necessary to replace the sensor and diagnostic module (SDM) and airbag modules, as well as to check the dimensions of the steering column.
- If any components of the airbag system (SIR) damaged, they must be replaced. If the attachment points of the airbag system components are damaged, they must be repaired or replaced.
- Never use SIR system components from another vehicle. This does not apply to remanufactured parts purchased from an authorized supplier.
- Do not attempt to repair the sensing and diagnostic module (SDM), clock spring and other modules of the airbag system. In the event of a malfunction, these elements must be replaced.
- Check the part numbers of the airbag modules to be replaced. Airbag modules may look the same but have different internals.
Replacing Deployed Airbag Components
After a frontal collision in which the airbags were deployed, all components of the airbag system (SIR) needs to be replaced. After deployment, a powdery residue may remain on the surface of the airbag. This sediment is made up primarily of cornstarch (which serves as a lubricant for the inflatable pillow) and by-products of a chemical reaction. Sodium hydroxide after actuation quickly reacts with atmospheric moisture and turns into sodium bicarbonate (so-called drinking soda). Therefore, the presence of sodium hydroxide after the air bag has been deployed is unlikely. Replace the following airbag system components (SIR).
Attention! Use gloves and goggles during disposal. Cm. "How to Dispose of a Deployed Airbag Module" in this section.
- Sensor and diagnostic module (SDM)
- Airbag modules and pretensioners
- Wiring of the inflatable airbag system (SIR)
- clock spring
Inspection of non-deployed airbag components
After any collision, a number of checks must be made, whether the airbags have deployed or not:
- Check the dimensions of the steering column.
- Inspect the knee buffers and attachment points for deformation, kinks, cracks or other damage.
- Inspect the instrument panel and steering column reinforcement for deformation, kinks, cracks or other damage.
- Inspect the instrument panel supports for deformation, kinks, cracks, or other damage.
- Inspect the seat belts and anchor points. See Section 8A, Seat Belts.