Kia Sorento: SRS Components and Functions

The SRS consists of the following components:

1. Driver's Front Airbag Module
2. Passenger's 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)/Rollover Sensor
8. Frontal Impact Sensors
9. Side Impact Sensors
10. PASSENGER "AIR BAG OFF" Indicator (front passenger seat only)
11. Occupant Detection System (front passenger seat only)
12. Driver and Front Passenger Seat Belt Buckle Switches
13. Advanced Restraint Control (ARC)

The SRSCM constantly monitors all SRS components while the ignition switch is ON to determine whether the impact is severe enough to require airbag deployment or seat belt pretensioner activation.

If the airbag warning light stays on for more than 6 seconds after the ignition is turned on, or comes on while driving, the SRS component may not be functioning properly, and you should have your vehicle checked by an authorized Kia dealer.

WARNING

If any of the following conditions occur, it indicates a malfunction in the airbag system. Have the airbag system checked by an authorized Kia dealer as soon as possible.

• 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.

The front airbag modules are located in the center of the steering wheel and in the front passenger's panel above the glove box. When the SRSCM detects a sufficiently severe impact to the front of the vehicle, it will automatically deploy 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, cassette holder, sticker, etc.) on the front passenger's 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 can become a dangerous projectile and cause injury if the passenger airbag inflates.

WARNING

• If the airbag deploys, a loud noise may be heard, followed by fine dust. The dust is not harmful and is not a danger. 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 persons. Always wash all exposed skin thoroughly with warm water and mild soap after an accident in which the airbags have deployed.
• The SRS can only function when the ignition switch is in the ON position. If the SRS airbag warning light does not come on, or stays on after the ignition switch is turned to ON for approximately 6 seconds, or comes on while driving after the engine has started, the SRS is not functioning properly. In this case, have the vehicle inspected by an authorized Kia dealer immediately.
• Before replacing a fuse or disconnecting the battery terminal, turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the ignition key. Never remove or replace the fuse(s) related to the airbag while the ignition switch is in the ON position. Failure to observe this warning may cause the SRS airbag warning light to illuminate.