Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Occupant Detection System (Diagnostics): General Description: Caution
- If the seat cushion cover is removed or replaced, make sure to perform passenger detection system adjustment after installing the seat to the vehicle. < Ref. to
SYSTEM CALIBRATION (REZEROING) , OPERATION, Subaru Select Monitor. >
Failure to do so may cause improper operation of the passenger detection system.
- The passenger detection system (passenger seat only) control unit and the passenger detection sensor are fixed to the seat cushion frame. Never remove the passenger detection control unit or the pressure sensor from the seat cushion frame.
- Do not replace the seat cushion pad by itself. Always replace the seat cushion pad and frame assembly as a set. The seat cushion pad and cushion frame are adjusted as a set at the time of manufacture. If cushion pads and cushion frames are combined from those of other vehicles or other sets, the passenger detection system may not operate properly.
- If the seat cushion cover is removed, make sure to replace the hang wire on the seat cushion side with a new wire.
- Never connect the battery in reverse polarity.
Occupant detection system may be destroyed instantly.
- Do not disconnect the battery terminals while the engine is running.
A large counter electromotive force will be generated in the generator, and this voltage may damage electronic parts such as occupant detection control module.
- Before disconnecting the connectors of each sensor and control module, be sure to turn the ignition switch to OFF and wait for 20 seconds or more.
Occupant detection control module may be damaged.
- All passenger detection system parts are precision components. Do not drop them.CAUTION:
- The airbag system wiring harnesses and connectors are all yellow in color. Do not use the electrical test equipment on these circuits.
- Be careful not to damage the airbag system wiring harness when servicing the occupant detection system.
- Refer to "Airbag System" when repairing the occupant detection system. < Ref. to CAUTION , General Description. >
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.