Contents: General description 🠛 Precautions 🠛
General description
On models equipped with a driver's airbag, the word "AIRBAG" is stamped on the steering wheel center block. The airbag system deploys in the event of a severe frontal or side collision whose force exceeds a certain threshold. The airbag inflates in milliseconds and forms a barrier between the driver and the steering wheel, and after the impact has been softened, the airbag deflates.
Each time the ignition is turned on, the air bag control unit begins a self-test, which lasts approximately 3 seconds (at this time the air bag control lamp is on). After the self-test, the control lamp goes out. If the warning light remains on after testing, or comes on at any time while the vehicle is being driven, there is a fault in the air bag system. Please contact your Renault dealer for inspection as soon as possible.
The model can be equipped with one of two types of air cushion: "separate" or "central".
"Separate" air cushion system
the "separate" system includes: an air cushion unit (with a built-in gas generator and ignition module), control unit (with a built-in collision sensor), control lamp (built into the steering wheel) and power source. The air bag unit is installed in the center of the steering wheel. The control unit, control lamp and power source are mounted in the steering wheel behind the air bag unit.
"Central" air cushion system
the "central" air cushion system includes: an air cushion unit (with a built-in gas generator and ignition module), control unit (with a built-in collision sensor), control lamp (on the instrument panel).
Precautions
Warning: To prevent injury when working on vehicles equipped with air bags, the following precautions must be observed.
General precautions
- Do not disconnect the negative battery cable while the engine is running.
- Before performing any work on air bag components, when removing air bag components, or when welding on the vehicle, deactivate the system as described in the next sub-chapter.
- Do not attempt to test the air bag system circuits using a tester or any other diagnostic equipment.
- If the air bag warning light comes on or you suspect any fault in the system, consult your Renault dealer immediately. Do not attempt to troubleshoot or remove components yourself.
Precautions when handling air springs
- Transport the air bag separately, with the bag facing up.
- Do not grasp the air spring with your hands.
- Carry the air bag tightly against your body, with the bag facing outward.
- Do not drop or hit the air spring.
- Do not attempt to disassemble the air spring assembly.
- Do not connect any electrical equipment to any part of the air bag circuit.
Precautions for storing the air bag unit
- Store the unit in its packaging with the air spring facing up.
- Do not allow the air spring to heat up to 80°C or higher.
- Do not expose the air spring to open flames.
- Do not attempt to dispose of the air spring yourself - consult your Renault dealer.
- Never install an air spring that is known to be faulty or damaged.
Deactivation of the air bag system
Before performing any work on or near the air spring components, the system must be deactivated as follows.
- Turn off the ignition.
- Remove the key from the ignition switch.
- Turn off all electrical equipment.
- Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
- Insulate the negative battery terminal and the negative battery cable end to prevent any possibility of accidental contact.
- Wait at least five minutes before starting work.
[View the original source on this resource: RENAULTBOOK]
Activation of the air bag system
Before connecting the air bag wiring, it is necessary to check the operation of the system using an auxiliary unit. Have this work carried out by a Renault dealer who has the appropriate equipment. After checking, the system can be activated.
Warning: Connecting a faulty air bag may result in improper operation or accidental deployment of the air bag system or emergency seat belt tensioner.