Seat Belt Pretensioner (if equipped)

The vehicle is equipped with front seat belts with pretensioners. The purpose of the pretensioner is to keep the seat belts snugly against the body in the event of a frontal collision. In a frontal collision of sufficient severity, the seat belts with pretensioners may be activated together with the airbags.

If the vehicle brakes suddenly, or the occupant suddenly leans forward, the retractor locks and holds the occupant in position. In certain types of frontal collisions, the pretensioner activates, tightening the seat belt around the occupant's body.

When the pretensioner activates, if the system detects excessive tension in the driver's or passenger's seat belt, the load limiter built into the pretensioner reduces the force exerted by the affected belt. (if equipped)

The seat belt pretensioner system consists mainly of the following components.

Their locations are shown in the illustration:

1. 1
   Airbag Warning Light
2. 2
   Retractor Assembly with Pretensioner
3. 3
   Airbag Control Module

WARNING To get the maximum benefit from the seat belt with pretensioner:

1. 1
   The seat belt must function properly and be positioned correctly. Be sure to read and follow all important information and precautions regarding occupant protection devices, including seat belts and airbags, contained in this manual.
2. 2
   The driver and all passengers must always wear seat belts, and must wear them correctly.

NOTE

• In certain frontal collisions, the driver's and passenger's seat belts with pretensioners will activate. In a frontal collision of sufficient severity, the seat belts with pretensioners may be activated together with the airbags.
• When the seat belt pretensioners activate, a loud noise is heard and a fine powder, resembling smoke, is released into the cabin.

Because the sensor that triggers the SRS airbag is connected to the seat belt pretensioner, when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, the SRS airbag warning light ( ) on the instrument cluster illuminates for about 6 seconds, then goes off.

WARNING

• Pretensioners work only once. After activation, the seat belts with pretensioners must be replaced. All seat belts worn during a collision, of any type, must always be replaced.
• The seat belt pretensioner mechanisms become very hot when activated. After activation, do not touch the seat belt pretensioners for several minutes.
• Do not attempt to inspect or replace the seat belts with pretensioners. This must be done by an authorized Kia dealer.
• Work on the front of the vehicle may damage the seat belt pretensioner system. Therefore, it is recommended that the system be checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
• Do not strike the seat belt assemblies with pretensioners.
• Do not attempt to service or repair the seat belts with pretensioners in any way.
• Improper handling and failure to observe the warnings against striking, modifying, inspecting, replacing, servicing, or repairing seat belts with pretensioners may cause malfunctions or accidental activation, with a serious risk of personal injury.
• Always wear seat belts when driving or riding in a motor vehicle.
• If the vehicle or the seat belt pretensioner is to be scrapped, it is recommended that you contact an authorized Kia dealer.