Safety Features of Your Vehicle

SRS Components and Functions

~3min read

The SRS consists of the following components:

1. Driver Front Airbag Module
2. Passenger Front Airbag Module
3. Side Airbag Modules*
4. Curtain Airbag Modules*
5. Seat Belt Pretensioner Assemblies
6. Airbag Warning Light
7. SRS Control Module (SRSCM)
8. Front Impact Sensors
9. Side Impact Sensors*
10. Passenger Front Airbag ON/OFF Indicator*
11. Passenger Front Airbag ON/OFF Switch*
12. EFD (Emergency Fastening Device)*

The SRSCM continuously monitors all components while the ignition switch is in the ON position to determine whether a frontal, near-frontal, or side impact is severe enough to require deployment of the airbags or seat belt pretensioners.

The SRS warning light on the instrument panel will illuminate for approximately 6 seconds after the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, after which it should turn off.

WARNING

If any of the following conditions occur, there is a malfunction in the SRS. We recommend having the system inspected by an authorized Kia dealer.

  • The light does not illuminate briefly when the ignition is turned on.
  • The light remains on after illuminating for approximately 6 seconds.
  • The lamp comes on while the vehicle is being driven.
  • The indicator flashes when the ignition switch is in the ON position.

Airbag modules are located in the center of the steering wheel and in the front passenger panel above the glove box. When the SRSCM detects a sufficiently severe frontal impact, it automatically deploys the front airbags.

During deployment, the tear seams molded directly into the trim covers separate under the pressure of the expanding airbags. Further opening of the covers then allows the airbags to fully inflate.

A fully deployed airbag, combined with a properly worn seat belt, slows the forward movement of the driver or passenger, reducing the risk of head and chest injuries.

After full deployment, the airbag begins to deflate immediately, allowing the driver to maintain forward visibility and the ability to steer or operate other controls.

WARNING

  • Do not install or place any accessories (cup holder, CD holder, sticker, etc.) on the front passenger panel above the glove box in a vehicle with a passenger airbag. Such items can become dangerous projectiles and cause injury if the passenger airbag deploys.
  • When installing a liquid air freshener container inside the vehicle, do not place it near the instrument cluster or on the surface of the instrument panel. It may become a dangerous projectile and cause injury if the passenger airbag inflates.

WARNING

  • If an airbag deploys, a loud noise may be heard, followed by fine dust released into the vehicle. These conditions are normal and not hazardous. The airbags are packed with this fine powder. Dust generated during airbag deployment may cause skin or eye irritation and may aggravate asthma in some individuals. Always wash all exposed skin thoroughly with cold water and mild soap after an accident in which the airbags have deployed.
  • The SRS can only operate when the ignition switch is in the ON position. If the SRS warning light does not illuminate, remains on continuously, or illuminates for approximately 6 seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, or illuminates while driving after the engine is started, the SRS is not operating properly. In this case, we recommend having the system inspected by an authorized Kia dealer.
  • Before replacing a fuse or disconnecting the battery terminal, turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the key from the ignition switch. Never remove or replace the fuse(s) associated with the airbag while the ignition switch is in the ON position. Failure to observe this warning will cause the SRS warning light to illuminate.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Carens RP quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.