OPERATION
The multistage driver airbag is deployed by electri-
cal signals generated by the Airbag Control Module
(ACM) through the driver airbag squib 1 and squib 2
circuits to the two initiators in the airbag inflator. By
using two initiators, the airbag can be deployed at
multiple levels of force. The force level is controlled
by the ACM to suit the monitored impact conditions
by providing one of four delay intervals between the
electrical signals provided to the two initiators. The
longer the delay between these signals, the less force-
fully the airbag will deploy. When the ACM sends the
proper electrical signals to each initiator, the electri-
cal energy generates enough heat to initiate a small
pyrotechnic charge which, in turn ignites chemical
pellets within the inflator. Once ignited, these chem-
ical pellets burn rapidly and produce a large quantity
of nitrogen gas. The inflator is sealed to the back of
the airbag housing and a diffuser in the inflator
directs all of the nitrogen gas into the airbag cush-
ion, causing the cushion to inflate. As the cushion
inflates, the driver airbag trim cover will split at pre-
determined breakout lines, then fold back out of the
way along with the horn switch and tray unit. Fol-
lowing an airbag deployment, the airbag cushion
quickly deflates by venting the nitrogen gas towards
the instrument panel through vent holes within the
fabric used to construct the back (steering wheel
side) panel of the airbag cushion.
Some of the chemicals used to create the nitrogen
gas may be considered hazardous while in their solid
state before they are burned, but they are securely
sealed within the airbag inflator. Typically, both ini-
tiators are used and all potentially hazardous chem-
icals are burned during an airbag deployment event.
However, it is possible for only one initiator to be
used during a deployment due to an airbag system
fault; therefore, it is necessary to always confirm
that both initiators have been used in order to avoid
the improper disposal of potentially live pyrotechnic
or hazardous materials. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE - SER-
VICE AFTER A SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
DEPLOYMENT). The nitrogen gas that is produced
when the chemicals are burned is harmless. How-
ever, a small amount of residue from the burned
chemicals may cause some temporary discomfort if it
contacts the skin, eyes, or breathing passages. If skin
or eye irritation is noted, rinse the affected area with
plenty of cool, clean water. If breathing passages are
irritated, move to another area where there is plenty
of clean, fresh air to breath. If the irritation is not
alleviated by these actions, contact a physician.
REMOVAL
The following procedure is for replacement of a
faulty or damaged driver airbag. If the airbag is
faulty or damaged, but not deployed, review the rec-
ommended procedures for handling non-deployed
supplemental restraints. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE - HAN-
DLING NON-DEPLOYED SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINTS). If the driver airbag has been
deployed, review the recommended procedures for
service after a supplemental restraint deployment
before removing the airbag from the vehicle. (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE - SERVICE AFTER A SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT DEPLOYMENT).
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, FRONT IMPACT SENSOR,
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BAT-
TERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT
TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO
DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: WHEN REMOVING A DEPLOYED AIR-
BAG, RUBBER GLOVES, EYE PROTECTION, AND A
LONG-SLEEVED SHIRT SHOULD BE WORN. THERE
MAY BE DEPOSITS ON THE AIRBAG CUSHION AND
OTHER INTERIOR SURFACES. IN LARGE DOSES,
THESE DEPOSITS MAY CAUSE IRRITATION TO THE
SKIN AND EYES.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to
discharge before further service.
(2) From the underside of the steering wheel,
remove the two screws that secure the driver airbag
to the steering wheel armature (Fig. 19).
(3) Pull the driver airbag away from the steering
wheel far enough to access the three electrical con-
nections on the back of the airbag housing.
(4) Disconnect the steering wheel wire harness
connector for the horn switch from the horn switch
feed pigtail wire connector, which is located on the
back of the driver airbag housing.
WJRESTRAINTS 8O - 19
DRIVER AIRBAG (Continued)
CAUTION: Do not pull on the clockspring pigtail
wires or pry on the connector insulator to disen-
gage the connector from the driver airbag inflator
connector receptacle. Improper removal of these
pigtail wires and their connector insulators can
result in damage to the airbag circuits or connector
insulators.
(5) The clockspring driver airbag pigtail wire con-
nectors are secured by an integral lock to the airbag
inflator connector receptacles, which are located at
the back of the driver airbag housing. Firmly grasp
and pull the lock straight out from the connector
insulator, then pull the insulators straight out from
the airbag inflator to disconnect them from the con-
nector receptacles.
(6) Remove the driver airbag from the steering
wheel.
(7) If the driver airbag has been deployed, the
clockspring must be replaced. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING - REMOVAL).
DISASSEMBLY
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, FRONT IMPACT SENSOR,
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BAT-
TERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAITTWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO
DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: THE HORN SWITCH IS INTEGRAL TO
THE DRIVER AIRBAG UNIT. SERVICE OF THIS UNIT
SHOULD BE PERFORMED ONLY BY
DAIMLERCHRYSLER-TRAINED AND AUTHORIZED
DEALER SERVICE TECHNICIANS. FAILURE TO
TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS OR TO FOL-
LOW THE PROPER PROCEDURES COULD RESULT
IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR IMPROPER AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE OCCUPANT
INJURIES.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to
discharge before further service.
(2) Remove the driver airbag from the steering
wheel. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
DRIVER AIRBAG - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the four nuts that secure the upper
and lower trim cover retainers to the studs on the
back of the driver airbag housing (Fig. 20).
(4) Remove the upper and lower trim cover retain-
ers from the airbag housing studs (Fig. 21).
Fig. 19 Driver Airbag Remove/Install
1 - DRIVER AIRBAG
2 - HORN SWITCH FEED WIRE CONNECTOR
3 - STEERING WHEEL WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
4 - SCREW (2)
5 - CLOCKSPRING PIGTAIL WIRE CONNECTOR (2)
Fig. 20 Driver Airbag Trim Cover Retainer Nuts
Remove/Install
1 - HORN SWITCH GROUND PIGTAIL WIRE
2 - NUTS
3 - HORN SWITCH FEED PIGTAIL WIRE
8O - 20 RESTRAINTSWJ
DRIVER AIRBAG (Continued)
WARNING: USE EXTREME CARE TO PREVENT ANY
FOREIGN MATERIAL FROM ENTERING THE DRIVER
AIRBAG, OR BECOMING ENTRAPPED BETWEEN
THE DRIVER AIRBAG CUSHION AND THE DRIVER
AIRBAG TRIM COVER. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS
WARNING COULD RESULT IN OCCUPANT INJURIES
UPON AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT.
WARNING: THE DRIVER AIRBAG TRIM COVER
MUST NEVER BE PAINTED. REPLACEMENT AIR-
BAGS AND TRIM COVERS ARE SERVICED IN THE
ORIGINAL COLORS. PAINT MAY CHANGE THE WAY
IN WHICH THE MATERIAL OF THE TRIM COVER
RESPONDS TO AN AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT. FAIL-
URE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD RESULT
IN OCCUPANT INJURIES UPON AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
(1) Assemble the driver airbag trim cover onto the
airbag housing. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RE-
STRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG - ASSEMBLY).
(2) Position the driver airbag close enough to the
steering wheel to reconnect all three electrical con-
nections on the back of the airbag housing.
(3) When installing the driver airbag, reconnect
the two clockspring driver airbag pigtail wire connec-
tors to the airbag inflator connector receptacles by
pressing straight in on the connectors (Fig. 19), then
pushing the locks straight into the connectors. You
can be certain that the connector is fully engaged by
listening carefully for a distinct, audible click as the
connector latches snap into place.
(4) Reconnect the steering wheel wire harness con-
nector for the horn switch to the horn switch feed
pigtail wire connector, which is located at the back of
the driver airbag housing.
(5) Carefully position the driver airbag in the
steering wheel. Be certain that the clockspring pig-
tail wires and steering wheel wire harness in the
steering wheel hub area are not pinched between the
driver airbag and the steering wheel armature.
(6) From the underside of the steering wheel,
install and tighten the two screws that secure the
driver airbag to the steering wheel armature.
Tighten the screws to 10 N´m (90 in. lbs.).
(7) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The supplemental restraint system verifi-
cation test procedure should be performed following
service of any supplemental restraint system compo-
nent. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - VERIFICATION TEST).FRONT IMPACT SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
Two front impact sensors are used on this model,
one each for the left and right sides of the vehicle
(Fig. 24). These sensors are mounted remotely from
the impact sensor that is internal to the Airbag Con-
trol Module (ACM). The right and left front and side
impact sensors are identical in construction and cal-
ibration with the exception of the right-hand and
left-hand die cast aluminum mounting brackets to
which each front impact sensor is secured with two
screws. The front impact sensor brackets are secured
with three screws to the front and inboard sides of
the right and left vertical members of the radiator
support within the engine compartment.
The impact sensor housing has an integral connec-
tor receptacle and two integral mounting ears, each
with a metal sleeve to provide crush protection. A cav-
ity in the center of the molded black plastic impact
sensor housing contains the electronic circuitry of the
sensor which includes an electronic communication
chip and an electronic impact sensor. Potting material
fills the cavity to seal and protect the internal elec-
tronic circuitry and components. The front impact sen-
sors are each connected to the vehicle electrical
system through a dedicated take out and connector of
the right or left headlamp and dash wire harnesses.
The front impact sensors cannot be repaired or
adjusted and, if damaged or faulty, they must be
replaced. If a front impact sensor is faulty, only the
sensor needs to be replaced. If the sensor or the sen-
sor mounting bracket is damaged or faulty, or if
proper tightening torque of the screws that secure
the sensor to the bracket cannot be achieved, the
sensor and bracket unit must be replaced.
Fig. 24 Front Impact Sensor
1 - SENSOR
2 - CONNECTOR RECEPTACLE
WJRESTRAINTS 8O - 23
DRIVER AIRBAG (Continued)
OPERATION
The front impact sensors are electronic accelerom-
eters that sense the rate of vehicle deceleration,
which provides verification of the direction and sever-
ity of an impact. Each sensor also contains an elec-
tronic communication chip that allows the unit to
communicate the sensor status as well as sensor
fault information to the microprocessor in the Airbag
Control Module (ACM). The ACM microprocessor con-
tinuously monitors all of the passive restraint system
electrical circuits to determine the system readiness.
If the ACM detects a monitored system fault, it sets
a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and controls the
airbag indicator operation accordingly.
The impact sensors each receive battery current
and ground through dedicated left and right sensor
plus and minus circuits from the ACM. The impact
sensors and the ACM communicate by modulating
the voltage in the sensor plus circuit. The hard wired
circuits between the front impact sensors and the
ACM may be diagnosed and tested using conven-
tional diagnostic tools and procedures. However, con-
ventional diagnostic methods will not prove
conclusive in the diagnosis of the ACM or the impact
sensors. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate
means to diagnose the impact sensors, the ACM, and
the electronic message communication between the
sensors and the ACM requires the use of a DRBIIIt
scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation.
REMOVAL
The front and side impact sensors are interchange-
able except that the front impact sensors are serviced
with a right or left mounting bracket, while the side
impact sensors use no mounting bracket. If a front
impact sensor is faulty, but not damaged, the sensor
may be removed from the sensor mounting bracket
and replaced with a side impact sensor. If the front
impact sensor or the sensor mounting bracket are
damaged in any way, or if proper tightening torque of
the screws that secure the sensor to the bracket can-
not be achieved, the front impact sensor and bracket
must be replaced as a unit.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, FRONT IMPACT SENSOR,
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BAT-
TERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT
TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO
DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHERDIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR ENABLES
THE SYSTEM TO DEPLOY THE FRONT SUPPLE-
MENTAL RESTRAINTS. NEVER STRIKE OR DROP
THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR, AS IT CAN DAMAGE
THE IMPACT SENSOR OR AFFECT ITS CALIBRA-
TION. IF AN IMPACT SENSOR IS ACCIDENTALLY
DROPPED DURING SERVICE, THE SENSOR MUST
BE SCRAPPED AND REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR
IMPROPER FRONT SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE OCCUPANT INJU-
RIES.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to
discharge before further service.
(2) From the engine compartment, disconnect the
right or left headlamp and dash wire harness connec-
tor for the front impact sensor from the sensor con-
nector receptacle (Fig. 25).
Fig. 25 Front Impact Sensor Remove/Install (Right
Side Shown, Left Side Similar)
1 - BRACKET
2 - IMPACT SENSOR
3 - RADIATOR SUPPORT
4 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
5 - SCREW (2)
8O - 24 RESTRAINTSWJ
FRONT IMPACT SENSOR (Continued)
(3) From the engine compartment, remove the two
screws that secure the right or left front impact sen-
sor to the sensor mounting bracket on the right or
left radiator support vertical member.
(4) Remove the front impact sensor from the sen-
sor mounting bracket.
INSTALLATION
The front and side impact sensors are interchange-
able except that the front impact sensors are serviced
with a right or left mounting bracket, while the side
impact sensors use no mounting bracket. If a front
impact sensor is faulty, but not damaged, the sensor
may be removed from the sensor mounting bracket
and replaced with a side impact sensor. If the front
impact sensor or the sensor mounting bracket are
damaged in any way, or if proper tightening torque of
the screws that secure the sensor to the bracket can-
not be achieved, the front impact sensor and bracket
must be replaced as a unit.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, FRONT IMPACT SENSOR,
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BAT-
TERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT
TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO
DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR ENABLES
THE SYSTEM TO DEPLOY THE FRONT SUPPLE-
MENTAL RESTRAINTS. NEVER STRIKE OR DROP
THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR, AS IT CAN DAMAGE
THE IMPACT SENSOR OR AFFECT ITS CALIBRA-
TION. IF AN IMPACT SENSOR IS ACCIDENTALLY
DROPPED DURING SERVICE, THE SENSOR MUST
BE SCRAPPED AND REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR
IMPROPER FRONT SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE OCCUPANT INJU-
RIES.(1) Position the right or left front impact sensor to
the sensor mounting bracket on the right or left radi-
ator support vertical member in the engine compart-
ment (Fig. 25).
(2) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the right or left front impact sensor to the sensor
mounting bracket. Tighten the screws to 10 N´m (85
in. lbs.).
(3) Reconnect the right or left headlamp and dash
wire harness connector for the front impact sensor to
the sensor connector receptacle.
(4) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The supplemental restraint system verifi-
cation test procedure should be performed following
service of any supplemental restraint system compo-
nent. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - VERIFICATION TEST).
FRONT IMPACT SENSOR &
BRACKET
REMOVAL
The front and side impact sensors are interchange-
able except that the front impact sensors are serviced
with a right or left mounting bracket, while the side
impact sensors use no mounting bracket. If a front
impact sensor is faulty, but not damaged, the sensor
may be removed from the sensor mounting bracket
and replaced with a side impact sensor. If the front
impact sensor or the sensor mounting bracket are
damaged in any way, or if proper tightening torque of
the screws that secure the sensor to the bracket can-
not be achieved, the front impact sensor and bracket
must be replaced as a unit.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, FRONT IMPACT SENSOR,
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BAT-
TERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT
TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO
DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
WJRESTRAINTS 8O - 25
FRONT IMPACT SENSOR (Continued)
WARNING: THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR ENABLES
THE SYSTEM TO DEPLOY THE FRONT SUPPLE-
MENTAL RESTRAINTS. NEVER STRIKE OR DROP
THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR, AS IT CAN DAMAGE
THE IMPACT SENSOR OR AFFECT ITS CALIBRA-
TION. IF AN IMPACT SENSOR IS ACCIDENTALLY
DROPPED DURING SERVICE, THE SENSOR MUST
BE SCRAPPED AND REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR
IMPROPER FRONT SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE OCCUPANT INJU-
RIES.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to
discharge before further service.
(2) Remove the headlamp mounting module from
the front of the vehicle. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTE-
RIOR/HEADLAMP MOUNTING MODULE -
REMOVAL).
(3) Disconnect the right or left headlamp and dash
wire harness connector for the front impact sensor
from the sensor connector receptacle.
(4) Remove the three screws that secure the right
or left front impact sensor and bracket unit to the
right or left radiator support vertical member (Fig.
26).
(5) Remove the right or left front impact sensor
and bracket unit from the front of the vehicle.INSTALLATION
The front and side impact sensors are interchange-
able except that the front impact sensors are serviced
with a right or left mounting bracket, while the side
impact sensors use no mounting bracket. If a front
impact sensor is faulty, but not damaged, the sensor
may be removed from the sensor mounting bracket
and replaced with a side impact sensor. If the front
impact sensor or the sensor mounting bracket are
damaged in any way, or if proper tightening torque of
the screws that secure the sensor to the bracket can-
not be achieved, the front impact sensor and bracket
must be replaced as a unit.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, FRONT IMPACT SENSOR,
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BAT-
TERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT
TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO
DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR ENABLES
THE SYSTEM TO DEPLOY THE FRONT SUPPLE-
MENTAL RESTRAINTS. NEVER STRIKE OR DROP
THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR, AS IT CAN DAMAGE
THE IMPACT SENSOR OR AFFECT ITS CALIBRA-
TION. IF AN IMPACT SENSOR IS ACCIDENTALLY
DROPPED DURING SERVICE, THE SENSOR MUST
BE SCRAPPED AND REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR
IMPROPER FRONT SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE OCCUPANT INJU-
RIES.
(1) Position the right or left front impact sensor
and bracket unit to the front of the vehicle (Fig. 26).
(2) Position the right or left front impact sensor
and bracket unit to the right or left radiator support
vertical member.
(3) Loosely install the three screws that secure the
right or left front impact sensor and bracket unit
right or left radiator support vertical member.
Fig. 26 Front Impact Sensor & B Remove/Install
1 - RADIATOR SUPPORT
2 - SCREW (3)
3 - BRACKET
4 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
5 - IMPACT SENSOR
8O - 26 RESTRAINTSWJ
FRONT IMPACT SENSOR & BRACKET (Continued)
(4) For the right impact sensor and bracket unit,
the tightening sequence for the three screws that
secure it to the right radiator support vertical mem-
ber is from top to bottom. For the left impact sensor
and bracket unit, the tightening sequence for the
three screws that secure it to the left radiator sup-
port vertical member is from bottom to top. Tighten
the screws to 12 N´m (105 in. lbs.).
(5) Reconnect the right or left headlamp and dash
wire harness connector for the front impact sensor to
the sensor connector receptacle.
(6) Reinstall the headlamp mounting module to
the front of the vehicle. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTE-
RIOR/HEADLAMP MOUNTING MODULE -
INSTALLATION).
(7) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The supplemental restraint system verifi-
cation test procedure should be performed following
service of any supplemental restraint system compo-
nent. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - VERIFICATION TEST).
FRONT SEAT BELT &
RETRACTOR
REMOVAL
WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT SERVICE, CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT
BELTS, BUCKLES, MOUNTING HARDWARE, AND
RETRACTORS FOR PROPER INSTALLATION,
OPERATION, OR DAMAGE. REPLACE ANY BELT
THAT IS CUT, FRAYED, OR TORN. STRAIGHTEN
ANY BELT THAT IS TWISTED. TIGHTEN ANY
LOOSE FASTENERS. REPLACE ANY BELT THAT
HAS A DAMAGED OR INOPERATIVE BUCKLE OR
RETRACTOR. REPLACE ANY BELT THAT HAS A
BENT OR DAMAGED LATCH PLATE OR ANCHOR
PLATE. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT BELT
COMPONENT. ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR
FAULTY SEAT BELT COMPONENTS WITH THE COR-
RECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT PARTS
LISTED IN THE MOPAR PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Adjust the front seat to its most forward posi-
tion for easiest access to the front seat belt lower
anchor and the B-pillar trim.
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(3) Lift the front seat belt lower anchor cover far
enough to access the screw that secures it to the
lower B-pillar (Fig. 27).
(4) Remove the screw that secures the lower
anchor to the B-pillar.(5) Using a trim stick or another suitable wide
flat-bladed tool, gently pry the top of the turning loop
trim cover to unsnap it from the height adjuster and
access the screw that secures the front seat belt turn-
ing loop to the adjuster on the upper B-pillar (Fig.
28).
Fig. 27 Front Seat Belt & Retractor Remove/Install
1 - ADJUSTER
2 - TURNING LOOP
3 - SCREW
4 - LOWER ANCHOR
5 - SCREW
6 - RETRACTOR
Fig. 28 Turning Loop Cover Remove/Install
1 - PILLAR
2 - TRIM COVER
3 - ADJUSTER
WJRESTRAINTS 8O - 27
FRONT IMPACT SENSOR & BRACKET (Continued)
(6) Remove the screw that secures the seat belt
turning loop to the height adjuster on the upper
B-pillar.
(7) Remove the seat belt turning loop from the
height adjuster.
(8) Remove the trim from the lower B-pillar. (Refer
to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/B-PILLAR LOWER TRIM -
REMOVAL).
(9) Pull the front seat belt turning loop and lower
anchor through the access hole in the lower B-pillar
trim.
(10) Remove the plastic push-in fastener that
secures the retractor to the lower B-pillar (Fig. 29).
(11) Disengage the retractor locator tab from the
slot in the B-pillar.
(12) Remove the front seat belt and retractor from
the B-pillar as a unit.
INSTALLATION
WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT SERVICE, CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT
BELTS, BUCKLES, MOUNTING HARDWARE, AND
RETRACTORS FOR PROPER INSTALLATION,
OPERATION, OR DAMAGE. REPLACE ANY BELT
THAT IS CUT, FRAYED, OR TORN. STRAIGHTEN
ANY BELT THAT IS TWISTED. TIGHTEN ANY
LOOSE FASTENERS. REPLACE ANY BELT THAT
HAS A DAMAGED OR INOPERATIVE BUCKLE OR
RETRACTOR. REPLACE ANY BELT THAT HAS A
BENT OR DAMAGED LATCH PLATE OR ANCHOR
PLATE. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT BELT
COMPONENT. ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED ORFAULTY SEAT BELT COMPONENTS WITH THE COR-
RECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT PARTS
LISTED IN THE MOPAR PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Be certain that the retractor shield is properly
installed in the lower B-pillar and in good condition
before reinstalling the retractor (Fig. 29).
(2) Position the front seat belt and retractor to the
B-pillar as a unit. Be certain to engage the retractor
locator tab in the slot in the lower B-pillar.
(3)
Using hand pressure, install the plastic push-in
fastener that secures the retractor to the lower B-pillar.
(4) Push the seat belt lower anchor and turning
loop through the access hole in the lower B-pillar
trim (Fig. 27).
(5) Reinstall the trim onto the lower B-pillar.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/B-PILLAR LOWER
TRIM - INSTALLATION).
(6) Position the seat belt turning loop onto the
height adjuster on the upper B-pillar.
(7) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
seat belt turning loop to the height adjuster. Tighten
the screw to 37 N´m (27 ft. lbs.).
(8) Using hand pressure, press the top of the turn-
ing loop trim cover to snap it onto the height
adjuster and cover the screw that secures the front
seat belt turning loop to the adjuster on the upper
B-pillar (Fig. 28).
(9) Position the front seat belt lower anchor to the
lower B-pillar.
(10) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
seat belt lower anchor to the B-pillar. Tighten the
screw to 37 N´m (27 ft. lbs.).
(11) Pull down the cover over the front seat belt
lower anchor far enough to conceal the screw.
(12) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLE
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM
BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG, PASSENGER
AIRBAG, FRONT IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE IMPACT SEN-
SOR, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DIS-
CONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE
PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE SUP-
PLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE
THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
Fig. 29 Front Retractor
1 - SHIELD
2 - RETRACTOR
3 - PLASTIC FASTENER
4 - SLOT
5 - LOCATOR TAB
8O - 28 RESTRAINTSWJ
FRONT SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR (Continued)