Diagnosing Customer Concerns w/out Hard Fault Codes

NOTE: Following the pinpoint tests when the code is not flashing will result in needless replacement of the air bag system components and repeat repair.

If a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is reported by the customer but is not present when the vehicle comes in for repair, pinpoint test diagnostics cannot be used. The air bag diagnostic monitor does not contain any memory of the DTC after the key is turned OFF. If the DTC is unknown, instruct the customer on how to count a code. Demonstrate a DTC by disconnecting a crash sensor, turn the key to the ON position, and allow the customer to count the DTC. Reconnect the air bag sensor and instruct the customer to return when the code is known.

Once the DTC is known, read the Normal Operations description for the code involved at the Pinpoint Test.
^ Study the circuit diagram and determine the location of components involved in creating that code.

Sensors

WARNING: VEHICLE SENSOR ORIENTATION IS CRITICAL FOR PROPER SYSTEM OPERATION. IF A VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH A SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN A COLLISION WHERE THE RADIATOR GRILLE OPENING PANEL, FRAME RAILS, OR COWL PANELS HAVE BEEN DAMAGED, INSPECT THE SENSOR MOUNTING BRACKETS FOR DEFORMATION. IF DAMAGED, THE SENSOR SHOULD BE REPLACED WHETHER OR NOT THE AIR BAGS ARE DEPLOYED. IN ADDITION, MAKE SURE THE AREA OF THE SENSOR MOUNTING IS RESTORED TO ITS ORIGINAL CONDITION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.

NOTE: Undamaged air bag sensors will reset automatically after a collision and can be reused.

The supplemental air bag restraint system (SRS) contains the following three sensors:
^ LH crash sensor.
^ RH crash sensor.
^ Safing sensor.

At least two sensors (one air bag sensor and the safing sensor) must be closed to inflate the air bag.
^ Do a thorough visual inspection of:
- Components.
- Connectors.
- Splices and wiring harnesses.
- Pinched wires.
- Worn insulation on conductors.
- Opens, shorts, or loosely mounted sensors.