AIR BAG SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION/OPERATION

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Driver-side Air Bag Module

• The driver-side air bag module is installed in the steering wheel.

• The driver-side air bag module operates (deploys) after receiving a signal from the SAS control module.

• The driver-side air bag module has no sub-components.

• Three-spoke type module has been adopted.

Clock Spring

• The clock spring is installed on the steering column behind the steering wheel.

• The clock spring provides a continuous electrical path between the driver-side air bag module and the SAS control module.

Driver-side Side Air Bag Module

Note

• When installing a new side air bag module after the side air bag has operated (deployed), refer to the side air bag module removal/installation in the workshop manual.

• The driver-side side air bag module operates (deploys) after receiving a signal from the SAS control module which receives an input signal from the driver-side side air bag sensor.

• The driver-side side air bag module is replaced as a single component.

• The driver-side side air bag module is installed in the driver"s seat.

Passenger-side Air Bag Module

• The passenger-side air bag module has no separately repairable parts and is installed as a single component.

• The passenger side air bag module is installed in the left side of the dashboard.

Passenger-side Side Air Bag Module

Note

• When installing a new side air bag module after the side air bag has operated (deployed), refer to the side air bag module removal/installation in the workshop manual.

• The passenger-side side air bag module operates (deploys) after receiving a signal from the SAS control module which receives an input signal from the passenger-side side air bag sensor.

• The passenger-side side air bag module is replaced as a single component.

• The passenger-side air bag module is installed in the passenger"s seat.

Pre-tensioner Front Buckle

As part of the air bag system, the safety belt buckles are equipped with pre-tensioners. The safety belt buckle pre-tensioners remove excess slack from the safety belt webbing. If the SAS control module detects a crash force exceeding the specification, it operates (deploys) the pre-tensioners.

SAS Control Module

The SAS control module executes the following functions.

• Sends a signal to the inflators to operate (deploy) the air bags in the event of a deployable crash.

• Sends a signal to the pre-tensioner front buckles to operate (deploy) in the event of a deployable crash.

• Monitors the air bag system for malfunctions.

• Illuminates the air bag warning system light if a malfunction is detected.

• Flashes the air bag warning system light to indicate the lamp malfunction code that is detected.

• Communicates through the data link connector-2 (DLC-2) the current or past diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

• Sends a signal to the GEM to operate a chime if the air bag warning light does not function and another air bag system malfunction exists.

Note

• The safety sensor is built into the SAS control module and cannot be serviced separately.

The SAS control module monitors the SRS air bag system for possible malfunctions. If a malfunction is detected while the ignition switch is in the ON position, the SAS control module will flash the air bag system warning light in the instrument cluster.

When the ignition is cycled (turned off and then on), the air bag indicator illuminates for 6 s and then turns off for 2 s. After diagnosing, the air bag system warning light flashes a two-digit LFC for any current air bag system malfunction. If an air bag system malfunction exists, the air bag system warning light will flash the LFC 5 times, and then remain illuminated for the rest of the key cycle. The SAS control module will also communicate the current and past DTCs through the DLC-2, to the mazda modular diagnostic system (M-MDS). If the air bag system warning light does not function, and the system detects a malfunction, the SAS control module will send a signal to the GEM to operate an audible chime. The chime is a series of five sets of five tone bursts. If the chime is heard, the air bag system and the air bag system warning light require repair.

LFCs are prioritized. If two or more malfunctions occur at the same time, the malfunction having the highest priority will be displayed. After that malfunction has been corrected, the next highest priority malfunction will be displayed.

The SAS control module includes a backup power supply. This feature provides sufficient backup power to operate (deploy) the air bags in the event that the ignition circuit is damaged in a collision before the safing and air bag sensors determine that an operation (deployment) is required. The backup power supply will deplete its stored energy approximately 1 min after the negative battery cable is disconnected.

Electrical System

The electrical system supports the air bag system as follows:

• The electrical system is powered from the battery through the ignition circuit.

• The electrical system provides the electrical path from the SAS control module to the air bag modules.

• The electrical system provides the electrical path from the SAS control module to the pre-tensioner front buckles.

• The electrical system provides the electrical path from the SAS control module to the side air bag sensors (equipped vehicles only).

• The electrical system provides the electrical path from the SAS control module to the air bag system warning light.

• The electrical system provides the electrical path from the SAS control module to the data link connector-2 (DLC-2).

• The electrical system provides the electrical path from the SAS control module to the GEM.

Sensor

Warning

• The SAS control module orientation is critical for correct system operation. If a vehicle equipped with an air bag system has been involved in a collision in which the center tunnel area has been damaged, inspect the mounting and bracket for deformation. If damaged, the SAS control module must be replaced whether or not the air bags have operated (deployed). In addition, make sure the area of the SAS control module mounting is restored to its original condition.

The vehicle"s air bag system employs three air bag sensors. One of the sensors is integral to the SAS control module and is not serviceable separately. In addition, there are two side air bag sensors located in the B-pillars on the left and right. The SAS control module is mounted on the center tunnel under the instrument panel. Installation orientation is critical for correct operation of all air bag sensors.

Side Air Bags

The driver-side and passenger-side side air bags are installed in the seat back frames.

Front seat back trim on seat backs with side air bags installed cannot be repaired. Replace the front seat back trim. Cleaning is allowable.

If a side air bag has operated (deployed), replace with a new seat back pad, trim, and side air bag module. If necessary, install a new seat back frame.