Safety Features of Your Vehicle

SRS Components and Functions

~3min read

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. Emergency locking retractor (ELR)

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.

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.

If any of the following conditions occur, it indicates a malfunction in the SRS. Contact an authorized Kia dealer to have the airbag system checked 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 light comes on while the vehicle is being driven.

Driver's front airbag (1)

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.

Driver's front airbag (2)

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.

Driver's front airbag (3)

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.

Passenger Front Air Bag

WARNING: Airbag Interference

Do not install or place accessories on the steering wheel, instrument panel, or front passenger's panel above the glove box. Such items can become dangerous projectiles if the airbag deploys.

WARNING - Flying Objects

Do not place any objects (umbrella, bag, etc.) between the door and the front seat. Such objects may become dangerous projectiles if the side airbag deploys.

  • When an airbag deploys, a loud noise occurs and fine powder is released into the vehicle. These conditions are normal and not hazardous. The airbags are packed with this fine powder. Dust produced during airbag deployment may irritate the skin or eyes and may aggravate asthma in some people. 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 Engine Start/Stop button is in the ON position. If the SRS airbag warning light does not come on, or stays on after illuminating for approximately 6 seconds when the ignition is turned ON, or after the engine is started, or comes on while driving, the SRS is not operating properly. In this case, have the vehicle inspected immediately by an authorized Kia dealer.

✽ NOTICE

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 airbag-related fuse(s) while the ignition key is in the ON position. Failure to follow this warning will cause the SRS airbag warning light to come on.

Test yourself

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