All models feature a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) of airbag on the side of the driver and front seat passenger to minimize the risk of critical injury in case of head or frontal crash. This system comprises a control unit that is mounted beneath the floor console and an airbag at the steering wheel while in other models; there are air bags on the sides of the front seats. Subsequent generations may also have seatbelt pre-tensioners, which are tiny explosives that tighten seat belts upon impact; the front seat belt retractor assemblies should not be removed or disconnected if presence pre-tensioners because problems with them will illuminate the SRS warning light. Driver side airbag inflator module is installed within the steering wheel and for the passenger side airbag it is installed above the glove compartment. The control module powers the squibs during a collision regardless of the disconnected battery and checks the system every time the vehicle is started and turns the SRS light if normally functioning at that time. Before beginning any work near the steering wheel or SRS components it is necessary to alert the system using the procedures described as follows, the wheels should be turned straight ahead, the negative terminal should be disconnected from the battery and the technician should wait for at least two minutes before proceeding. While handling an airbag module one has to ensure that the open part of the airbag is not near the skin or any surface and in any case one should not lie the airbag module with the opening facing down. Any measurement on the SRS component should be done with great care but no measurement should be taken across any of the resistance points; airbag modules that have been inflated must be taken to a dealer or a mechanic for destruction. For passenger side airbag module removal, the airbag system has to be disarmed, the glove box has to be removed in order to access the airbag module and then the airbag module is disconnected and unfastened, while the reverse is done for installation. Replacing a seat airbag entails the dismantling of the seat and any problems with the seat airbag module should be taken to a dealer or a qualified mechanic.
