Air Bag Control Module: Description and Operation

The air bag diagnostic monitor continually monitors all air bag system components and wiring connections for possible faults in the system. If the air bag diagnostic monitor detects a fault in the air bag system when the ignition switch is in the ON position, a fault code will be displayed on the air bag warning indicator, located in the instrument cluster. Performing system diagnostics is the main purpose of the air bag diagnostic monitor.

The air bag diagnostic monitor does not deploy the air bags in the event of a crash. The forward and center air bag sensors are "hard wired" to the air bags. Therefore, the forward and center air bag sensors and safing sensor determine when to deploy the air bags.

A tone generator is internal to the diagnostic monitor. The air bag warning indicator is the prime indicator for determining the air bag system condition. However, a series of five sets of five tones will be heard if the air bag warning indicator is inoperative and a fault occurs in the system. This indicates that the Supplemental Air Bag Restraint System (SRS) requires service. Unless serviced, the SRS may not function properly in the event of a collision.