Later models are equipped with a Supplemental Inflatable System (SIR), more commonly known as an airbag. This system is designed to protect the driver, and on some models, front seat passenger, from serious injury in the event of a head-on or frontal collision. It consists of an airbag module in the center of the steering wheel and the right side of the instrument panel, two crash sensors mounted at the front and the interior of the vehicle and a diagnostic monitor which also contains a backup power supply located in the passenger compartment. The drivers-side airbag inflator module contains a housing incorporating the cushion (airbag) and inflator unit, mounted in the center of the steering wheel. The passenger-side airbag is mounted above the glove compartment and designated by the letters SAS (Supplemental Restraint System). Models from 2000 and later may have optional side-impact airbags. These airbags are mounted at the side of the driver and front passenger seatbacks, and are designed to cushion the driver or passenger's head from hitting the glass or the door pillar. The system has three sensors: two forward sensors at the front of the vehicle and a safing sensor on the left side of the cowl in the passenger compartment. The electronic diagnostic monitor supplies the current to the airbag system In the event of the collision, even If battery power is cut off. Whenever working in the vicinity of the steering wheel, steering column or near other components of the airbag system, the system should be disarmed. To do this, perform the following steps:Turn the
Ignition Switch to Off.Detach the cable from the negative battery terminal, then the positive cable and wait 2 minutes for the electronic module backup power supply to be depleted. To enable the system,Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.Connect the positive battery cable first, then the negative cable.