Reading and Clearing Diagnostic Trouble Codes

Fig. 7 Fault code priorities chart:

Fig. 9 Air bag system electrical connector wiring identification:

Fig. 8 Air bag system wiring schematic (Part 1 of 2):

Fig. 8 Air bag system wiring schematic (Part 2 of 2):

The air bag monitor assembly has a coded flashing indicator lamp feature which assists the service technician in isolating a system malfunction or fault. The coding is accomplished by by a series of air bag lamp flashes. Each flash is ON for about 1/2 second and OFF for about 1/2 second. The number of flashes in each series is based on the type of fault being detected. The code is repeated when the ignition switch is in the Run position and a fault exists. The coded fault feature is prioritized such that if two or more different faults occur at the same time, the highest priority fault indication will dominate until corrected.
The most probable faults and associated codes are listed in the fault code priorities chart, Fig. 7, in the order that they are ranked from top to bottom. A similar listing not indicating priority is contained on the monitor assembly housing. These listings are for information only and should not be used for system diagnosis or troubleshooting. The following diagnostic guides and associated deactivation procedure should be used to pinpoint the specific fault and to safely diagnose and repair the system. However, if after using the diagnostic guides, the fault is not located, proceed to the diagnostic schematic to perform additional diagnostic checks to determine and correct uncommon faults.
``Disconnect'' does not imply removal. A disconnected part should not be reconnected until specific reconnect instruction is given.
A voltmeter, an ohmmeter and a jumper wire will be needed to perform testing.
Attach positive lead to circuit voltage and negative lead to specified ground. If a digital voltmeter is used on circuits 608 and 609 with monitor disconnected, the readout will not indicate the correct voltage.
All resistance checks must be made with the negative lead of ohmmeter at vehicle ground, not battery ground, unless specifically directed otherwise. Three places are recommended; the metal bracket of starter relay, the ignition lock cylinder on the steering column or the ground wire from harness under righthand side of instrument panel.
Refer to fault code priorities chart, Fig. 7, the system schematic, Fig. 8, the connector illustration, Fig. 9, and the diagnosis charts, Fig. 10, for diagnosis and testing.
``Verify Air Bag Lamp'' means to turn the ignition switch to ``Run'' and count the flashes only after code has cycled twice. If air bag lamp comes on continuously for 4 to 8 seconds and then goes out, the system is functioning properly and all faults have been repaired.