the engine compartment. This relay can be energized
by the BCM to sound the horns as an audible alert
for the RKE panic function and, if the Sound Horn
on Lock programmable feature is enabled, as an
audible verification for the RKE lock event. (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/HORN/HORN RELAY - DESCRIP-
TION).
LOW BEAM HEADLAMP RELAY
The low beam headlamp relay is a electromechan-
ical device that switches battery current to the head-
lamp low beams when the BCM grounds the relay
coil. The low beam headlamp relay is located in the
junction block in the passenger compartment. This
relay can be energized by the BCM to flash the head-
lamp low beams as an optical alert for the RKE panic
function. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHT-
ING - EXTERIOR/HEADLAMP - DESCRIPTION).
DESCRIPTION - LIFTGATE FLIP-UP GLASS
POWER RELEASE SYSTEM
A power operated liftgate flip-up glass release sys-
tem is standard factory installed equipment on this
model. The liftgate flip-up glass power release system
allows the flip-up glass latch to be released electri-
cally by depressing a switch located on the bottom of
the liftgate license plate lamp housing unit, above
the license plate on the outside of the liftgate.
The liftgate flip-up glass release system operates
on non-switched battery current supplied through a
fuse in the junction block so that the system remains
functional, regardless of the ignition switch position.
However, a limit switch that is integral to the liftgate
latch actuator unit opens to prevent the flip-up glass
latch from being actuated when the liftgate latch is
locked.
The liftgate flip-up glass power release system
includes the following components:
²Liftgate Flip-Up Glass Limit Switch- The
liftgate flip-up glass limit switch is integral to the
liftgate latch unit. (Refer to 23 - BODY/DECKLID/
HATCH/LIFTGATE/TAILGATE/LATCH - REMOVAL)
and (Refer to 23 - BODY/DECKLID/HATCH/LIFT-
GATE/TAILGATE/LATCH - INSTALLATION).
²Liftgate Flip-Up Glass Release Motor- The
liftgate flip-up glass release motor is integral to the
liftgate flip-up glass latch unit. (Refer to 23 - BODY/
DECKLID/HATCH/LIFTGATE/TAILGATE/FLIP-UP
GLASS LATCH - REMOVAL) and (Refer to 23 -
BODY/DECKLID/HATCH/LIFTGATE/TAILGATE/
FLIP-UP GLASS LATCH - INSTALLATION).
²Liftgate Flip-Up Glass Release Switch- The
liftgate flip-up glass release switch is integral to the
liftgate license plate lamp housing. (Refer to 23 -
BODY/DECKLID/HATCH/LIFTGATE/TAILGATE/
FLIP-UP GLASS SWITCH - REMOVAL) and (Referto 23 - BODY/DECKLID/HATCH/LIFTGATE/TAIL-
GATE/FLIP-UP GLASS SWITCH - INSTALLATION).
Hard wired circuitry connects the liftgate flip-up
glass power release system components to the electri-
cal system of the vehicle. These hard wired circuits
are integral to several wire harnesses, which are
routed throughout the vehicle and retained by many
different methods. These circuits may be connected to
each other, to the vehicle electrical system and to the
liftgate flip-up glass power release system compo-
nents through the use of a combination of soldered
splices, splice block connectors, and many different
types of wire harness terminal connectors and insu-
lators. Refer to the appropriate wiring information.
The wiring information includes wiring diagrams,
proper wire and connector repair procedures, further
details on wire harness routing and retention, as well
as pin-out and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.OPERATION
OPERATION - POWER LOCK SYSTEM
The Passenger Door Module (PDM) contains the
power door lock control logic and a power lock switch.
The Driver Door Module (DDM) contains a power
lock switch and controls the output to the driver side
front door power lock motor, while the PDM controls
the output to the power lock motors for the remain-
ing doors and the liftgate.
When the power lock switch on the DDM is used to
lock or unlock the doors, the DDM sends a control
output to the driver side front door power lock motor
and sends lock or unlock request messages to the
PDM over the Programmable Communications Inter-
face (PCI) data bus. The PDM responds to these mes-
sages by sending control outputs to the power lock
motors of the remaining doors and the liftgate. When
the power lock switch on the PDM is used to lock or
unlock the doors, the PDM sends control outputs to
the power lock motors in the passenger side front
door, both rear doors and the liftgate, then sends lock
or unlock request messages to the DDM over the Pro-
grammable Communications Interface (PCI) data
bus. The DDM responds to these messages by send-
ing control outputs to the power lock motor of the
driver side front door.
In order to support the auto door locks and unlock
on exit features, if enabled, the power lock system
logic in the PDM needs to know the door ajar switch
status, vehicle speed, and transmission gear selector
lever position. The passenger side front door ajar
switch is the only hard wired input to the PDM. The
PDM obtains the remaining information from mes-
sages it receives from other electronic modules over
the PCI data bus network.
8N - 4 POWER LOCKSWJ
POWER LOCKS (Continued)
See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for
more information on the features, use and operation
of the power lock system.
OPERATION - REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY
SYSTEM
The Passenger Door Module (PDM) contains the
RKE system control logic and the RKE receiver.
When the RKE receiver recognizes a Lock, Unlock or
Panic message from a valid RKE transmitter, the
RKE receiver provides that input to the PDM. The
PDM circuitry and programming responds by sending
the proper messages to the other electronic modules
over the Programmable Communications Interface
(PCI) data bus.
When an RKE lock message is received, the doors
and the liftgate lock, the interior lighting fades to off,
the horn chirps (if this feature is enabled), the exte-
rior lamps flash (if this feature is enabled) and, if the
vehicle is so equipped, the Vehicle Theft Security
System (VTSS) is armed. When an RKE unlock mes-
sage is received, the driver side front door (or all
doors and the liftgate if this feature is enabled)
unlock, the interior lighting is turned on and, if the
vehicle is so equipped, the VTSS is disarmed. If the
vehicle is equipped with the Memory System and the
RKE Linked to Memory feature is enabled, the RKE
unlock message also recalls the driver seat, outside
mirror and radio settings assigned to the RKE trans-
mitter that sent the unlock signal.
When an RKE panic message is received, it causes
the exterior lamps (including the headlights) to flash,
and the horn to pulse for about three minutes, or
until a second panic message is received. A vehicle
speed of about 24 kilometers-per-hour (15 miles-per-
hour) will also cancel the panic event.
See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for
more information on the features, use and operation
of the RKE system.
OPERATION - LIFTGATE FLIP-UP GLASS
POWER RELEASE SYSTEM
When the liftgate mounted flip-up glass release
switch is depressed, battery current is directed to the
electric release motor that is integral to the flip-up
glass latch located inside the liftgate. When the
release motor is energized the latch releases and the
flip-up glass can be opened. A liftgate flip-up glass
limit switch is integral to the liftgate latch actuator
mechanism. The limit switch automatically enables
or disables the liftgate flip-up glass power release cir-
cuitry, depending upon the position of the liftgate
latch lock mechanism. When the liftgate latch is
unlocked, the limit switch closes and battery current
is available at the release switch. When the liftgatelatch is locked , the limit switch opens, and the
release switch is disabled.
See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for
more information on the features, use and operation
of the liftgate flip-up glass power release system.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - POWER LOCK
SYSTEM
Following are tests that will help to diagnose the
hard wired components and circuits of the power lock
system. However, these tests may not prove conclu-
sive in the diagnosis of this system. In order to
obtain conclusive testing of the power lock system,
the Programmable Communications Interface (PCI)
data bus network and all of the electronic modules
that provide inputs to, or receive outputs from the
power lock system components must be checked.
The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to
diagnose the power lock system requires the use of a
DRBIIItscan tool and the proper Diagnostic Proce-
dures manual. The DRBIIItscan tool can provide
confirmation that the PCI data bus is functional, that
all of the electronic modules are sending and receiv-
ing the proper messages on the PCI data bus, and
that the power lock motors are being sent the proper
hard wired outputs by the door modules for them to
perform their power lock system functions.
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The
wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire
harness routing and retention, connector pin-out
information and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
PRELIMINARY DIAGNOSIS
As a preliminary diagnosis for the power lock sys-
tem, note the system operation while you actuate
both the Lock and Unlock functions with the power
lock switches and with the Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) transmitter. Then, proceed as follows:
²If the entire power lock system fails to function
with either the power lock switches or the RKE
transmitter, check the fused B(+) fuse in the Power
Distribution Center. If the fuse is OK, proceed to
diagnosis of the door modules. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/
DOOR MODULE - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
²If the power lock system functions with both
power lock switches, but not with the RKE transmit-
ter, proceed to diagnosis of the Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) system. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER
LOCKS - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - REMOTE
KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM).
WJPOWER LOCKS 8N - 5
POWER LOCKS (Continued)
²If the power lock system functions with the RKE
transmitter, but not with one or both power lock
switches, proceed to diagnosis of the door modules.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CON-
TROL MODULES/DOOR MODULE - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING).
²If the driver side power lock switch operates
only the driver side front door power lock motor, but
all other power lock motors operate with the passen-
ger side power lock switch or the RKE transmitter,
use a DRBIIItscan tool and the appropriate diagnos-
tic information to diagnose the Programmable Com-
munications Interface (PCI) data bus.
²If only one power lock motor fails to operate
with both power lock switches and the RKE trans-
mitter, proceed to diagnosis of the power lock motor.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER LOCKS/POWER
LOCK MOTOR - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - REMOTE KEYLESS
ENTRY SYSTEM
Following are tests that will help to diagnose the
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system. However, these
tests may not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of
this system. In order to obtain conclusive testing of
the RKE system, the Programmable Communications
Interface (PCI) data bus network and all of the elec-
tronic modules that provide inputs to, or receive out-
puts from the RKE system components must be
checked.
The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to
diagnose the RKE system requires the use of a
DRBIIItscan tool and the appropriate diagnostic
information. The DRBIIItscan tool can provide con-
firmation that the PCI data bus is functional, that all
of the electronic modules are sending and receiving
the proper messages on the PCI data bus, and that
the RKE receiver is being sent the proper radio fre-
quency signals by the RKE transmitters to perform
its RKE system functions.
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The
wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire
harness routing and retention, connector pin-out
information and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
PRELIMINARY DIAGNOSIS
As a preliminary diagnosis for the RKE system,
note the system operation while you perform both the
Lock and Unlock functions with the power lock
switches and with the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
transmitter. Then, proceed as follows:
²If the entire power lock system fails to function
with either the power lock switches or the RKE
transmitter, check the fused B(+) fuse in the PowerDistribution Center. If the fuse is OK, proceed to the
diagnosis for the door modules. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/
DOOR MODULE - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
²If the power lock system functions with both
power lock switches, but not with the RKE transmit-
ter, proceed to the diagnosis for the RKE transmitter.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER LOCKS/RE-
MOTE KEYLESS ENTRY TRANSMITTER - DIAG-
NOSIS AND TESTING).
²If the driver side power lock switch operates
only the driver side front door power lock motor, but
all other power lock motors operate with the passen-
ger side power lock switch or the RKE transmitter,
use a DRBIIItscan tool and the appropriate diagnos-
tic information to diagnose the Programmable Com-
munications Interface (PCI) data bus.
If the problem being diagnosed involves only the
Sound Horn on Lock or the Flash Lights with Locks
features, be certain that these programmable fea-
tures are enabled. If the features are enabled and the
service horn and turn signals still operate, the Body
Control Module (BCM) and the PCI data bus must be
tested. For diagnosis of the BCM or the PCI data
bus, the use of a DRBIII scan tool and the appropri-
ate diagnostic information are required.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - LIFTGATE FLIP-UP
GLASS POWER RELEASE SYSTEM
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The
wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire
harness routing and retention, connector pin-out
information and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
(1) Check the fused B(+) fuse in the Junction
Block (JB). If OK, go to Step 2. If not OK, repair the
shorted circuit or component as required and replace
the faulty fuse.
(2) Check for battery voltage at the fused B(+) fuse
in the JB. If OK, go to Step 3. If not OK, repair the
open fused B(+) circuit to the Power Distribution
Center (PDC) as required.
(3) Disconnect the liftgate wire harness connector
for the liftgate lock motor and flip-up glass limit
switch from the motor and switch connector recepta-
cle. Check for battery voltage at the fused B(+) cir-
cuit cavity of the liftgate wire harness connector for
the liftgate lock motor and flip-up glass limit switch.
If OK, go to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open fused
B(+) circuit between the liftgate lock motor and
flip-up glass limit switch and the JB as required.
(4) Check for continuity between the two liftgate
flip-up glass limit switch terminals. There should be
continuity with the liftgate latch unlocked, and no
continuity with the latch locked. If OK, go to Step 5.
8N - 6 POWER LOCKSWJ
POWER LOCKS (Continued)
OPERATION
The clockspring is a mechanical electrical circuit
component that is used to provide continuous electri-
cal continuity between the fixed instrument panel
wire harness and the electrical components mounted
on or in the rotating steering wheel. On this model
the rotating electrical components include the driver
airbag, the horn switch, the speed control switches,
and the remote radio switches, if the vehicle is so
equipped. The clockspring case is positioned and
secured to the multi-function switch mounting hous-
ing on the upper steering column housing by two
screws. The two connector receptacles on the tail of
the fixed clockspring case connect the clockspring to
the vehicle electrical system through two take outs
with connectors from the instrument panel wire har-
ness. The clockspring rotor is movable and is keyed
to the hub of the steering wheel by two large flats
that are molded into the rotor hub. The three pins
(two round and one oblong) on the lower surface of
the clockspring rotor hub engage and index the clock-
spring rotor to the turn signal cancel cam. The turn
signal cancel cam is integral to the multi-function
switch mounting housing and is keyed to the upper
steering column shaft. Two short, yellow-sleeved pig-
tail wires on the upper surface of the clockspring
rotor connect the clockspring to the driver airbag,
while a steering wheel wire harness connects the two
connector receptacles on the upper surface of the
clockspring rotor to the horn switch, the two speed
control switches, and the remote radio switches on
vehicles that are so equipped.
Like the clockspring in a timepiece, the clockspring
tape has travel limits and can be damaged by being
wound too tightly during full stop-to-stop steering
wheel rotation. To prevent this from occurring, the
clockspring must be centered when it is installed on
the steering column. Centering the clockspring
indexes the clockspring tape to the movable steering
components so that the tape can operate within its
designed travel limits. However, if the clockspring is
removed from the steering column or if the steering
shaft is disconnected from the steering gear, the
clockspring spool can change position relative to the
movable steering components and must be re-cen-
tered following completion of the service or the tape
may be damaged. Service replacement clocksprings
are shipped pre-centered and with a locking pin
installed. This locking pin should not be removed
until the clockspring has been installed on the steer-
ing column. If the locking pin is removed before the
clockspring is installed on a steering column, the
clockspring centering procedure must be performed.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCK-
SPRING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCK-
SPRING CENTERING).
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCKSPRING
CENTERING
The clockspring is designed to wind and unwind
when the steering wheel is rotated, but is only
designed to rotate the same number of turns (about
five complete rotations) as the steering wheel can be
turned from stop to stop. Centering the clockspring
indexes the clockspring tape to other steering compo-
nents so that it can operate within its designed
travel limits. The rotor of a centered clockspring can
be rotated two and one-half turns in either direction
from the centered position, without damaging the
clockspring tape.
However, if the clockspring is removed for service
or if the steering column is disconnected from the
steering gear, the clockspring tape can change posi-
tion relative to the other steering components. The
clockspring must then be re-centered following com-
pletion of such service or the clockspring tape may be
damaged. Service replacement clocksprings are
shipped pre-centered and with a molded plastic lock-
ing pin installed. This locking pin should not be
removed until the clockspring has been installed on
the steering column. If the locking pin is removed
before the clockspring is installed on a steering col-
umn, the clockspring centering procedure must be
performed.
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.
NOTE: Before starting this procedure, be certain to
turn the steering wheel until the front wheels are in
the straight-ahead position.
(1) Place the front wheels in the straight-ahead
position.
(2) Remove the clockspring from the steering col-
umn. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
CLOCKSPRING - REMOVAL).
WJRESTRAINTS 8O - 15
CLOCKSPRING (Continued)
(3) Align and seat the one pin and the two mount-
ing ears on the clockspring case to their respective
holes in the multi-function switch mounting housing.
(4) Install and tighten the two clockspring mount-
ing screws. Tighten the screws to 2.5 N´m (22 in.
lbs.).
(5) Reconnect the two instrument panel wire har-
ness connectors for the clockspring to the two connec-
tor receptacles below the steering column on the back
of the clockspring case.
(6) Position the lower tilting steering column
shroud onto the steering column (Fig. 16).
(7) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
lower tilting steering column shroud to the multi-
function switch mounting housing. Tighten the screw
to 2 N´m (17 in. lbs.).
(8) Position the upper tilting column shroud onto
the steering column with the hazard warning switch
button inserted through the hole in the upper surface
of the shroud. Align the upper tilting steering column
shroud to the lower shroud and snap the two shroud
halves together.
(9) Align the snap features on the upper and lower
shrouds and apply hand pressure to snap them
together.
(10) Reinstall the steering wheel onto the steering
column. (Refer to 19 - STEERING/COLUMN/STEER-
ING WHEEL - INSTALLATION).
(11)
Reconnect the steering wheel wire harness con-
nectors to the upper clockspring connector receptacles.
(12) Reinstall the driver airbag onto the steering
wheel. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
DRIVER AIRBAG - INSTALLATION).
DRIVER AIRBAG
DESCRIPTION
The injection molded, thermoplastic driver airbag
protective trim cover is the most visible part of the
driver airbag (Fig. 18). The driver airbag is located in
the center of the steering wheel, where it is secured
with two screws to the two horizontal spokes of the
four-spoke steering wheel armature. A stamped, satin
polished emblem with the Jeeptlogo is applied to the
center of the trim cover. Concealed beneath the
driver airbag trim cover are the horn switch, the
folded airbag cushion, the airbag retainer or housing,
the airbag inflator, and the retainers that secure the
inflator to the airbag housing.
The airbag cushion, housing, and inflator are
secured within an integral receptacle molded into the
back of the trim cover. The driver airbag trim cover
has locking blocks molded into the back side of it
that engage a lip formed around the perimeter of the
airbag housing. Two stamped metal retainers then fitover the inflator mounting studs on the back of the
airbag housing and are engaged in slots within the
upper and lower trim cover locking blocks, securely
locking the cover into place.
The resistive membrane-type horn switch is
secured within a plastic tray that is inserted in a
pocket or pouch sewn onto the airbag cushion
retainer strap, between the trim cover and the folded
airbag cushion. The horn switch ground pigtail wire
has an eyelet terminal connector that is captured on
the upper right inflator mounting stud between the
inflator and the upper trim cover retainer. The horn
switch feed pigtail wire has a white, molded plastic
insulator that is secured by an integral retainer to a
mounting hole located in the upper trim cover
retainer near the upper left corner on the back of the
airbag housing, and is connected to the vehicle elec-
trical system through a take out and connector of the
steering wheel wire harness.
The airbag used in this model is a multistage, Next
Generation-type that complies with revised federal air-
bag standards to deploy with less force than those used
in some prior models. A radial deploying fabric airbag
cushion with tethers is used. The airbag inflator is a
dual-initiator, non-azide, pyrotechnic-type unit with
four mounting studs and is secured to the stamped
metal airbag housing using four hex nuts with washers.
Two keyed and color-coded connector receptacles on the
driver airbag inflator connect the two inflator initiators
to the vehicle electrical system through two yellow-
jacketed, two-wire pigtail harnesses of the clockspring.
The driver airbag cannot be repaired, and must be
replaced if deployed or in any way damaged. The driver
airbag trim cover and the horn switch are available
individually, and may be disassembled from the driver
airbag for service replacement.
Fig. 18 Driver Airbag Trim Cover
1 - STEERING WHEEL
2 - TRIM COVER
8O - 18 RESTRAINTSWJ
CLOCKSPRING (Continued)
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)
(5) Disengage the horn switch feed pigtail wire
connector retainer from the mounting hole in the
upper trim cover retainer.
(6) Remove the horn switch ground pigtail wire
eyelet terminal from the upper right airbag housing
stud.
(7) Disengage the four trim cover locking blocks
from the lip around the outside edge of the driver
airbag housing and remove the housing from the
cover (Fig. 22).
ASSEMBLY
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 SUREWAY 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.
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.
Fig. 21 Driver Airbag Trim Cover Retainers
1 - UPPER RETAINER
2 - AIRBAG HOUSING
3 - TRIM COVER
4 - NUT (4)
5 - LOWER RETAINER
6 - INFLATOR
7 - STUDS
Fig. 22 Driver Airbag Trim Cover Remove/Install
1 - RETAINER SLOTS
2 - LOCKING BLOCKS
3 - RETAINER SLOTS
WJRESTRAINTS 8O - 21
DRIVER AIRBAG (Continued)