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)
8. Frontal impact sensors
9. Side impact sensors*
10. Passenger's front airbag ON/OFF indicator*
11. Passenger's front airbag switch*
12. EFD (Emergency Fastening Device)*
13. Side impact sensors*
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
Occurrence of any of the following conditions indicates a malfunction of the SRS. In this case, have the system checked at a qualified workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorized Kia dealer/service partner.
- • The light does not come on 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.
- • The indicator flashes when the ignition key 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 and fine dust may enter the vehicle. These conditions are normal and not hazardous; the airbags are packed with this fine powder. Dust generated when the airbag deploys may irritate the skin or eyes and may aggravate asthma in some persons. Always thoroughly wash all exposed skin with cold water and mild soap after an accident in which the airbags have deployed.
- The SRS can operate only when the ignition switch is in the ON position. If the SRS airbag warning lamp does not illuminate, or stays illuminated, 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, have the system inspected at a specialized workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorized Kia dealer/service partner.
- Before replacing a fuse or disconnecting the battery terminal, turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the ignition key, or turn off the engine start/stop button. Never remove or replace the fuse(s) related to the airbag when the ignition switch is in the ON position. Failure to heed this warning will cause the SRS airbag warning lamp to illuminate.
Test yourself
A quick Kia Soul Owner's Manual quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.