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.
Description & Operation
The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), also known as air bag system, is designed to provide additional protection for driver and front passenger by deploying air bags and front seat belt buckle pretensioners in a front-end collision. The air bags, stored in center of steering wheel and in instrument panel above glove box, deploy in about 40 milliseconds after impact sensors close. The seat belt buckle pretensioners are deployed in conjunction with the air bags. The air bag system is designed to be used with the 3-point seat belt system.
The main components of the air bag system are driver-side and passenger-side air bag modules, rotary coupler (clockspring), air bag Diagnostic Control Unit (DCU), left and right seat belt buckle pretensioners, and AIR BAG warning light (SRS warning light). See COMPONENT LOCATIONS .
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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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.