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touching the coded key while starting the engine. These objects cannot damage the coded key, but may cause a momentary “no start” condition if they are too close to the key when starting the engine. If a problem occurs, turn the ignition to the 2 (OFF) position and restart the engine with all other objects on the key ring held away from the ignition key. Check to make sure the coded key is an approved coded key.

gasoline or similar items.

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If your keys are lost or stolen, you will need to do the following: • Use your spare key to start the vehicle, or • Have your vehicle towed to an authorized dealer or a locksmith. The key codes will need to be erased from your vehicle and new codes will need to be re-coded.

Replacing coded keys can be very costly and you may want to store an extra programmed key away from the vehicle in a safe place to prevent an unforeseen inconvenience. The correct coded key must be used for your vehicle. The use of the wrong coded key may lead to a “no start” condition. If an unprogrammed key is used in the ignition, it will cause a “no start” condition.

Programming spare keys A maximum of eight keys can be coded to your vehicle. Only SecuriLock娂 keys can be used. To program a coded key yourself, you will need two previously programmed coded keys (keys that already operate your vehicle’s engine) and the new unprogrammed key(s) readily accessible for timely implementation of each step in the procedure. If two previously programmed coded keys are not available, you must bring your vehicle to your authorized dealer to have the spare coded key(s) programmed. Please read and understand the entire procedure before you begin. 1. Insert the first previously programmed coded key into the ignition and turn the ignition from the 3 (OFF) position to the 4 (ON) position [maintain ignition in 4 (ON) for at least three seconds, but no more than ten seconds]. 2. Turn ignition from the 4 (ON) position back to the 3 (OFF) position in order to remove the first coded key from the ignition.

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3. Within ten seconds of removing the first coded key, insert the second previously programmed coded key into the ignition and turn the ignition from the 3 (OFF) position to the 4 (ON) position [maintain ignition in the 4 (ON) position for at least three seconds but no more than ten seconds]. 4. Turn the ignition from the 4 (ON) position back to the 3 (OFF) position in order to remove the second coded key from the ignition. 5. Within 10 seconds of removing the second coded key, insert the new unprogrammed key (new key/valet key) into the ignition and turn the ignition from the 3 (OFF) position to the 4 (ON) position [maintain ignition in the 4 (ON) position for at least three seconds, but no more than ten seconds]. This step will program your new key to a coded key. 6. To program additional new unprogrammed key(s), repeat this procedure from step 1. If successful, the new coded key(s) will start the vehicle’s engine and the theft indicator will illuminate for three seconds and then go out. If not successful, the new coded key(s) will not start the vehicle’s engine and the theft indicator will flash on and off and you may repeat Steps 1
through 5. If failure repeats, bring your vehicle to your authorized dealer to have the new spare key(s) programmed.

PERIMETER ALARM SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) The perimeter anti-theft system will warn you in the event of an unauthorized entry to your vehicle. If there is any potential perimeter anti-theft problem with your vehicle, ensure ALL remote entry transmitters are taken to the authorized dealer to aid in troubleshooting.

Arming the system When armed, this system will help protect your vehicle from unauthorized entry. When unauthorized entry occurs, the system will flash the turn signal lamps and side repeaters and honk the horn. The system is ready to arm whenever the key is removed from the ignition. Any of the following actions will prearm the alarm system: • Locking the vehicle using the remote entry transmitter. • Locking the vehicle using the keyless entry keypad. • Pressing the interior power door lock control while the door is open.

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Twenty seconds after one of the above events occurs, any door/hood that is closed is armed. Any door/hood that is still open is prearmed and waiting for the door/hood to be closed. Once that input is closed, the input will arm in 20 seconds and the exterior lamps may flash.

Disarming the system You can disarm the system by any of the following actions: • Unlock the vehicle with the remote keyless transmitter. • Unlock the vehicle with the keyless entry keypad. • Unlock the vehicle with a key in the driver’s door lock cylinder. • Use a SecuriLock娂 key to move the ignition to the 4 (ON) or 5

(START) position.

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SEATING Notes:

Reclining the seatback can cause an occupant to slide under the seat’s safety belt, resulting in severe personal injuries in the

event of a collision.

Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to reduce the risk of injury in a collision or sudden stop.

Before returning the seatback to its original position, make sure that cargo or any objects are not trapped behind the seatback.

After returning the seatback to its original position, pull on the seatback to ensure that it has fully latched. An unlatched seat may become dangerous in the event of a sudden stop or collision.

Adjustable head restraints (if equipped) Head restraints help to limit head motion in the event of a rear collision. Adjust your head restraint so that it is located directly or as close as possible behind your head. The head restraints can be moved up and down.

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Push control to lower head restraint.

Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped)

Never adjust the driver’s seat or seatback when the vehicle is moving.

Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

Lift handle to move seat forward or backward.

Pull lever up to adjust seatback.

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Before returning the seatback to its original position, make sure that cargo or any objects are not trapped behind the seatback.

After returning the seatback to its original position, pull on the seatback to ensure that it has fully latched. An unlatched seat may become dangerous in the event of a sudden stop or collision.

Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)

Never adjust the driver’s seat or seatback when the vehicle is moving.

Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to avoid injuring people in a collision or sudden stop.

Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

Reclining the seatback can reduce the effectiveness of the seat’s safety belt in the event of a collision.

Sitting improperly out of position or with the seat back reclined too far can take off weight from the seat cushion and affect the decision of the passenger sensing system, resulting in serious injury or death in a crash. Always sit upright against your seatback, with your feet on the floor.

To reduce the risk of possible serious injury: Do not hang objects off seat back or stow objects in map pocket (if equipped) when a child is in the front passenger seat. Do not place objects underneath the front passenger seat or between the seat and the center console (if equipped). Check Passenger Airbag Disable Indicator for proper Airbag Status. Refer to Front Passenger Sensing System chapter for additional details. Failure to follow these instructions may interfere with the front passenger seat sensing system.

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The control is located on the outboard side of the seat cushion. Press to raise or lower the front portion of the seat cushion.

Press to raise or lower the rear portion of the seat cushion.

Press the control to move the seat forward, backward, up or down.

Heated seats (if equipped) To operate the heated seats: • Push the control located on the

climate control system panel once to activate high heat. • Push twice to activate low heat. • Push a third time to deactivate. The indicator light on the control will illuminate when activated. For low heat, one light will be lit; for high heat, both lights will be lit. The heating of the seat turns off after 10 minutes or when the vehicle is turned off.

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Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped) The lumbar control is located on the inboard side of the seat under the armrest. Rotate the control to change the firmness of the lumbar support.

Memory seats/sideview mirrors/adjustable pedals (if equipped) This system allows automatic positioning of the driver seat, outside rearview mirrors, and adjustable pedals to two programmable positions. The memory seat control is located on the door next to the window inside from the mirror. • To program position one, move the driver seat to the desired position using the seat controls. Press the SET control. The SET control indicator light will briefly illuminate. While the light is illuminated, press control 1.

SET

• To program position two, repeat the previous procedure using control

2.

A position can only be recalled when the transmission gearshift is in Park. A memory seat position may be programmed at any time. The memory positions are also recalled when you press your remote entry transmitter UNLOCK control if the transmitter is programmed to a memory position or when you enter a valid personal entry code that is programmed to a memory position. To program the memory feature to a remote entry transmitter and for more information on how to use the keypad, refer to Remote entry system in the Locks and Security chapter.

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REAR SEATS

Head restraints Lift the head restraint so that it is located directly or as close as possible behind your head. The head restraints can be moved up and down by pulling up on the head restraint.

Push button to lower head restraint.

Seat mounted cup holders (if equipped) Deploy by pressing the button on top of the cupholder.

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The cupholder is designed to detach from the seat when subjected to heavy load. The cupholder can be reinstalled by returning to the closed position.

Use only soft cups in the cupholder. Hard objects can injure you in a collision.

Adjusting 2nd row seats (if equipped) Lift control to adjust seat forward or backward. • 2nd row bucket seat (if

equipped)

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• 2nd row bench seat (if equipped) Note: This seat can be moved forward to keep a child in a LATCH child restraint attached to the LATCH anchors at the center of the bench seat close to the front seat occupants or to increase cargo room without removing the seat. The seat should be moved to the full rearward position when it is occupied by older children or adults, and when child seats are installed at the seating positions. Adjusting second row bucket and bench seat back Pull control forward to adjust seat back. Using same control will fold the seat back flat.

Reclining the seatback can cause an occupant to slide under the seat’s safety belt, resulting in severe personal injuries in the

event of a collision.

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Accessing the third row seat with a second row bucket seat Ensure head restraint is in the full down position and seat is adjusted to full rear position (if equipped).

Note: Place the front row seat in a forward position to allow the 2nd row to be fully upright. Lift the handle located on the rear lower corner of the seat.

The seat back will fold flat.

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Continuing to lift the handle will tumble the seat forward, allowing easier access to the third row seat.

After entering the 3rd row seat, return the seat from the tumbled position and latch it to the floor.

Operate recline control to return the seatback to the upright position. Note: • Ensure that the seat and seatback is latched securely in position. • Keep floor area free of objects that would prevent proper seat engagement. • Do not adjust or release the seat

floor latch while vehicle is in motion.

• Do not operate the vehicle with seats in tumbled position.

Always latch the vehicle seat to the floor, whether the seat is occupied or empty. If not latched, the seat may cause injury

during a sudden stop.

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Before returning the seatback to its original position, make sure that cargo or any objects are not trapped underneath the

seatback. After returning the seatback to its original position, pull on the seatback to ensure that it has fully latched. An unlatched seat may become dangerous in the event of a sudden stop or collision.

Always latch the vehicle seat to the floor, whether the seat is occupied or empty. If not latched, the seat may cause injury

during a sudden stop.

Second row bench seat tip slide feature 1. Push the side easy-entry control handle forward and allow the seat back to flip forward. 2. Push the seat forward to allow access to the third row.

After entering the 3rd row, pull back the seatback until it latches. This will latch and lock the seatback and the seat track. The seatback and seat will not return to their original position. Note: Ensure the front row seat is in a forward position to allow the seat to return.

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Exiting the third row seat Second row bucket seats (if equipped) Follow directions for accessing the third row seat Second row bench seat To exit the third row, activate the easy entry system by pulling on the strap on the rear of the seat. This will cause the seatback to flip forward and the seat track latches to open. Push the seat forward to allow easier exit from the third row.

After exiting the third row, push rearward on the cushion of the seat to return the seat to its original position. Push the seatback rearward until it latches. This will latch and lock the seatback and the seat track.

Before returning the seatback to its original position, make sure that cargo or any objects are not trapped underneath the

seatback. After returning the seatback to its original position, pull on the seatback to ensure that it has fully latched. An unlatched seat may become dangerous in the event of a sudden stop or collision.

Note: Do not attempt to return the seat by pushing on the seatback, as this will cause the seat tracks to re-lock before the seat can be returned. Push on the cushion to return the seat.

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Removal of second row seats from vehicle 1. Place the front row seat in a forward position to allow the 2nd row seat to be fully upright. 2. Place the 2nd row seat in a rear position to allow the 2nd row seat to be fully upright. 3. Place seat in tumbled position. (See Accessing 3rd row seat)

4. From inside the vehicle, pull up on front floor release handle.

5. Rotate the seat rearward at a 30
to 45 degree angle.

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6. With the assist handle, pull the seat rearward.

7. Remove the seat from vehicle. Second row bench seat 1. Detach the lap/shoulder belts from both sides of the seat by inserting a safety belt tongue or key into the buckle release slot, pushing upward as shown, and pulling out the mini-tongue on the end of the safety belt.

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2. Find the clips attached near the ends of the lap/shoulder belts.

3. Clip the end of the belt to the stationary portion of the shoulder belt coming out of the trim panel.

The end of the shoulder belt must be clipped in order to keep it from striking anything during vehicle operation.

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4. Position seatback in full down position. 5. From behind seat pull straight back on the release handles located on each side of the seat, releasing the rear floor latches. 6. Lift up the seat by the release handles to clear the floor latches and then pull the seat rearward until the front hooks have come out of the floor tubs. 7. Remove the seat. Installation of second row seats

Second row bucket seats Prior to installation, ensure that the seats are on the correct side of the vehicle. Ensure that the seat is positioned so that the safety belt buckle is near the center aisle of the vehicle. The seatback must be folded flat prior to installation. 1. Position the seat in vehicle. Place first row seat in a forward position to allow the second row seat to be installed.

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2. Install seat onto rear pin of front tub at a 30 to 45 degree angle.

3. Rotate the seat forward until it latches onto the front pin.

4. Rotate seat rearward until the back of the seat latches onto the floor.

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5. Operate recline lever and push the seat back upright.

Ensure seat is latched to vehicle floor by pushing/pulling on seat. If not latched, the seat may cause injury during a sudden stop.

Before returning the seatback to its original position, make sure that cargo or any objects are not trapped behind the seatback.

After returning the seatback to its original position, pull on the seatback to ensure that it has fully latched. An unlatched seat may become dangerous in the event of a sudden stop or collision.

Second row bench seat 1. Position the seat in vehicle. 2. Align seat front hooks to the rear most pins of the front tub.

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3. Lower back of seat onto the rear tubs until both release controls latch into place. Be sure that the seat is locked in place both front and back.

Do not place the seat front hooks on the front most pin of the front tub. Doing so will not allow the seat to fully install in vehicle.

Ensure seat is latched to vehicle floor by pushing/pulling on seat. If not latched, the seat may cause injury during a sudden stop.

Stowing the third row seat 1. If the comfort guide is on the center lap/shoulder belt, slip the guide off the belt and stow the guide in the pocket on the back of the seat.

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2. If you plan to carry very large objects or items that might damage the center lap/shoulder belt, detach the belt from the seat. Use a key or safety belt tongue to release the buckle.

3. Store the tongue of the sliding latchplate in the belt pocket.

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4. Store the belt in the housing found on the ceiling by inserting the smaller tongue in the slot provided. Note: The seat can be stowed with the safety belt connected if desired. Store the tongue of the sliding latchplate in the belt pocket to avoid potential damage to the seat.

5. Push the head restraint release buttons and move the head restraints fully down. Remove all objects from the seat and stowage tub.

6. From the rear of the vehicle, fold seat back by pulling and releasing the number 1 strap.

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Important: If you don’t let go of the number 1 strap before the seat back folds completely, the seat may not stow flat in the tub. Refer to the label attached to the rear of the vehicle seat.

7. Release the cushion latches by pulling the number 2 strap.

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8. Pull the number 3 strap on the seat back to tumble seat all the way in to the tub in the floor.

Do not use the seat anchors as cargo tie downs.

Unstowing the third row seat Ensure seat latching area is free of objects. 1. Lift the seat out of the tub in the floor by pulling up on the exposed strap or handle. Once seat is at a vertical position, push the seat over, letting it fall onto the latches.

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2. To return the seat back to the seating position, pull the number 1
strap, then while holding the number 1 strap, pull the number 3
strap to raise the seat back. 3. Release the number 1 strap to allow the seat to lock, then release the number 3 strap.

4. Pull up on the head restraints to adjust them. 5. If the center lap/shoulder belt is detached, remove the belt from the ceiling storage area just ahead of the liftgate opening and buckle the tongue on the end of the belt to the mini-buckle on the left side of the center seat.

Ensure seat is latched to vehicle floor by pushing/pulling on seat. If not latched, the seat may cause injury during a sudden stop.

Before returning the seatback to its original position, make sure that cargo or any objects are not trapped behind the seatback.

After returning the seatback to its original position, pull on the seatback to ensure that it has fully latched. An unlatched seat may become dangerous in the event of a sudden stop or collision.

Third row seat features The seat is equipped with a recline function to allow for adjustment of the seat back for improved comfort. To activate the recliner, pull and hold the strap located near the plastic shield in the center of the seat. When seat is adjusted to desired location, release the strap.

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Reclining the seatback can cause an occupant to slide under the seat’s safety belt, resulting in severe personal injuries in the

event of a collision.

Tailgate function The 3rd row seat is equipped with a tailgate function to be utilized when the vehicle is parked and engine turned off. This rearward-facing position allows the customer to open the liftgate and sit facing out of the vehicle rearward.

This is not a position suitable for driving. Do not drive the vehicle with the seat in this position. The safety belts are not

functional when the seat is in the tailgate position.

Ensure head restraints are moved to their full down position, all safety belts are released from the seat, seat and stowage tub are free of objects. 1. Push the head restraint release buttons and move all head restraints fully down. 2. To access the tailgate function, the seat must be in the seating position. If the seat is not in the seating position, follow all the steps of the Unstowing the third row seat section.Once the seat is in the seating position, release the cushion latches by pulling the number 2
strap. Then, pull the seat rearward by the number 3 strap and set the seat on the liftgate scuff plate. The number 1 strap is not used to access this position.

Do not sit on the head restraints.

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3. To return the seat, ensure seat latching area is free of objects. Then, raise the seat off the liftgate scuff plate and push at the top of the seat back to rotate the seat back onto the latches. Pull up on the head restraints to raise them.

Ensure seat is latched to vehicle floor by pushing/pulling on seat. If not latched, the seat may cause injury during a sudden stop.

SAFETY RESTRAINTS

Personal Safety System姟 The Personal Safety System娂 provides an improved overall level of frontal crash protection to front seat occupants and is designed to help further reduce the risk of airbag-related injuries. The system is able to analyze different occupant conditions and crash severity before activating the appropriate safety devices to help better protect a range of occupants in a variety of frontal crash situations. Your vehicle’s Personal Safety System娂 consists of: • Driver and passenger dual-stage airbag supplemental restraints. • Front outboard safety belts with pretensioners, energy management • Driver’s seat position sensor. • Passenger occupant classification sensor • Front crash severity sensor. • Restraints Control Module (RCM) with impact and safing sensors. • Restraint system warning light and back-up tone. • The electrical wiring for the airbags, crash sensor(s), safety belt pretensioners, front safety belt usage sensors, driver seat position sensor, passenger occupant classification sensor, and indicator lights.

retractors (first row only), and safety belt usage sensors.

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How does the Personal Safety System姟 work? The Personal Safety System娂 can adapt the deployment strategy of your vehicle’s safety devices according to crash severity and occupant conditions. A collection of crash and occupant sensors provides information to the Restraints Control Module (RCM). During a crash, the RCM activates the safety belt pretensioners and/or either one or both stages of the dual-stage airbag supplemental restraints based on crash severity and occupant conditions. The fact that the pretensioners or airbags did not activate for both front seat occupants in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the Personal Safety System娂 determined the accident conditions (crash severity, belt usage, etc.) were not appropriate to activate these safety devices. Front airbags are designed to activate only in frontal and near-frontal collisions (not rollovers, side impacts or rear impacts) unless the collision causes sufficient longitudinal deceleration. The pretensioners are designed to activate in frontal collisions, and in side collisions and rollovers when the vehicle is equipped with the available Safety Canopy娂 system. Driver and passenger dual-stage airbag supplemental restraints The dual-stage airbags offer the capability to tailor the level of airbag inflation energy. A lower, less forceful energy level is provided for more common, moderate-severity impacts. A higher energy level is used for the most severe impacts. Refer to Airbag supplemental restraints section in this chapter. Front crash severity sensor The front crash severity sensor enhances the ability to detect the severity of an impact. Positioned up front, it provides valuable information early in the crash event on the severity of the impact. This allows your Personal Safety System娂 to distinguish between different levels of crash severity and modify the deployment strategy of the dual-stage airbags and safety belt pretensioners. Driver’s seat position sensor The driver’s seat position sensor allows your Personal Safety System娂 to tailor the deployment level of the driver dual-stage airbag based on seat position. The system is designed to help protect smaller drivers sitting close to the driver airbag by providing a lower airbag output level.

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Front passenger sensing system For airbags to do their job they must inflate with great force, and this force can pose a potentially deadly risk to occupants that are very close to the airbag when it begins to inflate. For some occupants, this occurs because they are initially sitting very close to the airbag. For other occupants, this occurs when the occupant is not properly restrained by safety belts or child safety seats and they move forward during pre-crash braking. The most effective way to reduce the risk of unnecessary injuries is to make sure all occupants are properly restrained. Accident statistics suggest that children are much safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front.

Air bags can kill or injure a child in a child seat. NEVER place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must

use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the way back.

Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints.

The passenger occupant classification sensor can automatically turn off the passenger front airbag. The system is designed to help protect small (child size) occupants from airbag deployments when they are improperly seated or restrained in the front passenger seat contrary to proper child-seating or restraint usage recommendations. Even with this technology, parents are STRONGLY encouraged to always properly restrain children in the rear seat. The sensor also turns off the passenger’s front airbag, and side airbag if equipped, when the passenger seat is empty to prevent unnecessary replacement of the airbag(s) after a collision. Front safety belt usage sensors The front safety belt usage sensors detect whether or not the driver and front outboard passenger safety belts are fastened. This information allows your Personal Safety System娂 to tailor the airbag deployment and safety belt pretensioner activation depending upon safety belt usage. Refer to Safety belt section in this chapter.

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Front safety belt pretensioners The safety belt pretensioners at the front outboard seating positions are designed to tighten the safety belts firmly against the occupant’s body during frontal collisions, and side collisions and rollovers when the vehicle is equipped with the available Safety Canopy娂 system. This maximizes the effectiveness of the safety belts. In frontal collisions, the safety belt pretensioners can be activated alone or, if the collision is of sufficient severity, together with the front airbags. Front safety belt energy management retractors The front outboard safety belt energy management retractors allow webbing to be pulled out of the retractor in a gradual and controlled manner in response to the occupant’s forward momentum. This helps reduce the risk of force-related injuries to the occupant’s chest by limiting the load on the occupant. Refer to Energy management feature section in this chapter. Determining if the Personal Safety System is operational The Personal Safety System娂 uses a warning light in the instrument cluster or a back-up tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the Warning light section in the Instrument cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the Personal Safety System娂 is not required. The Restraints Control Module (RCM) monitors its own internal circuits and the circuits for the airbag supplemental restraints, crash sensor(s), safety belt pretensioners, front safety belt buckle sensors, driver seat position sensor, and passenger occupant classification sensor. In addition, the RCM also monitors the restraints warning light in the instrument cluster. A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following. • The warning light will either flash or stay lit. • The warning light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat

turned on.

periodically until the problem and warning light are repaired.

If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the Personal Safety System娂 serviced at an authorized dealer immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision.

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Safety belt precautions

Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

To reduce the risk of injury, make sure children sit where they can be properly restrained.

Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from

injury in a collision.

All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag

supplemental restraint system (SRS) is provided.

It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas

are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.

In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.

Each seating position in your vehicle has a specific safety belt assembly which is made up of one buckle and one tongue that

are designed to be used as a pair. 1) Use the shoulder belt on the outside shoulder only. Never wear the shoulder belt under the arm. 2) Never swing the safety belt around your neck over the inside shoulder. 3) Never use a single belt for more than one person.

Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints.

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Combination lap and shoulder belts 1. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from) until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.

2. To unfasten, push the release button and remove the tongue from the buckle.

All restraints in the vehicle are combination lap and shoulder belts. While you are fastened in the safety belt, the combination lap/shoulder belt adjusts to your movement. However, if you brake hard, turn hard, or if your vehicle receives an impact of 5 mph (8 km/h) or more, the safety belt will become locked and help reduce your forward movement.

Energy Management Feature — Front Outboard • This vehicle has a safety belt system with an energy management

feature at the front seats to help further reduce the risk of injury in the event of a head-on collision. • This safety belt system has a retractor assembly that is designed to extend the safety belt webbing in a controlled manner. This helps reduce the belt force acting on the user’s chest.

Failure to inspect and replace if necessary the Belt and Retractor assembly after an accident could increase the risk of

injury in a collision.

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All safety restraints in the vehicle are combination lap and shoulder belts. All of the passenger combination lap and shoulder belts have two types of locking modes described below:

Vehicle sensitive mode This is the normal retractor mode, which allows free shoulder belt length adjustment to your movements and locking in response to vehicle movement. For example, if the driver brakes suddenly or turns a corner sharply, or the vehicle receives an impact of approximately 5 mph (8
km/h) or more, the combination safety belts will lock to help reduce forward movement of the driver and passengers. Automatic locking mode

When to use the automatic locking mode In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically pre-locked. The belt will still retract to remove any slack in the shoulder belt. The automatic locking mode is not available on the driver safety belt. This mode should be used any time a child safety seat is installed in a passenger front or outboard rear seating position (if equipped). Children 12 years old and under should be properly restrained in the rear seat whenever possible. Refer to Safety restraints for children or Safety seats for children later in this chapter. How to use the automatic locking mode • Buckle the combination lap and

shoulder belt.

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Seating and Safety Restraints • Grasp the shoulder portion and pull downward until the entire belt is pulled out.

• Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the automatic locking mode.

How to disengage the automatic locking mode

Ford Motor Company recommends that all passenger safety belt assemblies and attaching hardware should be inspected by an

authorized dealer after any collision to verify that the ⬙automatic locking retractor⬙ feature for child seats is still working properly. Safety belt assemblies should be inspected by an authorized dealer and must be replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted. Failure to replace the belt and retractor assembly could increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Unbuckle the combination lap/shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the automatic locking mode and activate the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode.

Safety belt height adjustment Your vehicle has safety belt height adjustments at the front and second row outboard seating positions. Adjust the height of the shoulder belt so the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder. To adjust the shoulder belt height, squeeze and hold the buttons on the side and slide the height adjuster up or down. Release the buttons and pull down on the height adjuster to make sure it is locked in place.

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Position the safety belt height adjusters so that the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder. Failure to adjust the safety

belt properly could reduce the effectiveness of the safety belt and increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Third row comfort guide Note: Before stowing the third row seat or folding the third row seat back down, the center seat lap/shoulder belt needs to either have the cross lap tongue stowed in the pocket on the belt or the entire belt needs to be stowed in the roof. The safety belt for the 3rd row center occupant may be stowed in the ceiling if it has been detached from the seat to carry large cargo. Remove the safety belt from the stowage area on the ceiling and buckle the small tongue on the end of the safety belt to the mini-buckle on the left side of the center seat position. The third row center lap/shoulder belt is equipped with a Belt Comfort Guide located in a pocket on the back of the seat. The guide is attached to the driver’s side head restraint, and is used to adjust the comfort of the shoulder belt for smaller occupants in the center position of the 3rd row seat. To adjust the comfort guide: • Slip the shoulder belt into the • Slide the guide up or down along the head restraint post so that the

belt guide.

belt is centered on the occupant’s shoulder.

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Safety belt warning light and indicator chime The safety belt warning light illuminates in the instrument cluster and a chime sounds to remind the occupants to fasten their safety belts.

Conditions of operation If... The driver’s safety belt is not buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position... The driver’s safety belt is buckled while the indicator light is illuminated and the warning chime is sounding... The driver’s safety belt is buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position...

Then... The safety belt warning light illuminates 1-2 minutes and the warning chime sounds 4-8 seconds.

The safety belt warning light and warning chime turn off.

The safety belt warning light and indicator chime remain off.

BeltMinder姞 The BeltMinder威 feature is a supplemental warning to the safety belt warning function. This feature provides additional reminders by intermittently sounding a chime and illuminating the safety belt warning light in the instrument cluster when the driver’s and front passenger’s safety belt is unbuckled. The BeltMinder威 feature uses information from the front passenger sensing system to determine if a front seat passenger is present and therefore potentially in need of a warning. To avoid activating the BeltMinder威 feature for objects placed in the front passenger seat, warnings will only be given to large front seat occupants as determined by the front passenger sensing system. Both the driver’s and passenger’s safety belt usages are monitored and either may activate the BeltMinder威 feature. The warnings are the same for the driver and the front passenger. If the BeltMinder威 warnings have expired (warnings for approximately 5 minutes) for one occupant (driver or front passenger), the other occupant can still activate the BeltMinder威 feature.

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If... The driver’s and front passenger’s safety belts are buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position or less than 1-2
minutes have elapsed since the ignition switch has been turned ON... The driver’s or front passenger’s safety belt is not buckled when the vehicle has reached at least 3 mph (5
km/h) and 1-2 minutes have elapsed since the ignition switch has been turned to ON... The driver’s or front passenger’s safety belt becomes unbuckled for approximately 1
minute while the vehicle is traveling at least 3 mph (5
km/h) and more than 1-2
minutes have elapsed since the ignition switch has been turned to ON...

Then... The BeltMinder威 feature will not activate.

The BeltMinder威 feature is activated - the safety belt warning light illuminates and the warning chime sounds for 6 seconds every 30
seconds, repeating for approximately 5 minutes or until the safety belts are buckled.

The BeltMinder威 feature is activated - the safety belt warning light illuminates and the warning chime sounds for 6 seconds every 30
seconds, repeating for approximately 5 minutes or until the safety belts are buckled.

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The following are reasons most often given for not wearing safety belts (All statistics based on U.S. data): Reasons given... “Crashes are rare events”

Consider... 36700 crashes occur every day. The more we drive, the more we are exposed to “rare” events, even for good drivers. 1 in 4 of us will be seriously injured in a crash during our lifetime. 3 of 4 fatal crashes occur within 25
miles (40 km) of home. We design our safety belts to enhance comfort. If you are uncomfortable - try different positions for the safety belt upper anchorage and seatback which should be as upright as possible; this can improve comfort. Prime time for an accident. BeltMinder威 reminds us to take a few seconds to buckle up. Safety belts, when used properly, reduce risk of death to front seat occupants by 45% in cars, and by 60% in light trucks. Nearly 1 of 2 deaths occur in single-vehicle crashes, many when no other vehicles are around. Possibly, but a serious crash can do much more than wrinkle your clothes, particularly if you are unbelted. Set the example, teen deaths occur 4
times more often in vehicles with TWO or MORE people. Children and younger brothers/sisters imitate behavior they see.

“I’m not going far”

“Belts are uncomfortable”

“I was in a hurry”

“Safety belts don’t work”

“Traffic is light”

“Belts wrinkle my clothes”

“The people I’m with don’t wear belts”

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Reasons given... “I have an airbag”

“I’d rather be thrown clear”

Seating and Safety Restraints

Consider... Airbags offer greater protection when used with safety belts. Frontal airbags are not designed to inflate in rear and side crashes or rollovers. Not a good idea. People who are ejected are 40 times more likely to DIE. Safety belts help prevent ejection, WE CAN’T “PICK OUR CRASH”.

Do not sit on top of a buckled safety belt to avoid the BeltMinder威 chime. Sitting on the safety belt will increase the risk of injury in an accident. To disable (one-time) or deactivate the BeltMinder威 feature please follow the directions stated below.

One time disable If at any time the driver/front passenger quickly buckles then unbuckles the safety belt for that seating position, the BeltMinder威 is disabled for the current ignition cycle. The BeltMinder威 feature will enable during the same ignition cycle if the occupant buckles and remains buckled for approximately 30 seconds. Confirmation is not given for the one time disable. Deactivating/activating the BeltMinder姞 feature The driver and front passenger BeltMinder威 are deactivated/activated independently. When deactivating/activating one seating position, do not buckle the other position as this will terminate the process. Read Steps 1 - 4 thoroughly before proceeding with the deactivation/activation programming procedure. Note: The driver and front passenger BeltMinder威 features must be disabled/enabled separately. Both cannot be disable/enabled during the same key cycle. The driver and front passenger BeltMinder威 features can be deactivated/activated by performing the following procedure: Before following the procedure, make sure that: • The parking brake is set

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Seating and Safety Restraints • The gearshift is in P (Park) (automatic transmission) • The ignition switch is in the OFF position • The driver and front passenger safety belts are unbuckled

To reduce the risk of injury, do not deactivate/activate the BeltMinder威 feature while driving the vehicle.

1. Turn the ignition switch to the RUN (or ON) position. (DO NOT START THE ENGINE) 2. Wait until the safety belt warning light turns off. (Approximately 1
minute) • Step 3 must be completed within 50 seconds after the safety belt

warning light turns off.

3. For the seating position being disabled, at a moderate speed, buckle then unbuckle the safety belt 9 times, ending in the unbuckled state. (Step 3 must be completed within 50 seconds after the safety belt warning light turns off.) • After Step 3, the restraint system warning light (airbag light) will be

turned on for three seconds.

4. Within 10 seconds of the light turning on, at a moderate speed, buckle then unbuckle the safety belt. • This will disable the BeltMinder威 feature for that seating position if it

is currently enabled. As confirmation, the restraint system warning light will flash 4 times per second for 3 seconds. • This will enable the BeltMinder威 feature for that seating position if it is currently disabled. As confirmation, the restraint system warning light will flash 4 times per second for 3 seconds, followed by 3
seconds with the light off, then followed by the restraint system warning light flashing 4 times per second for 3 seconds again.

Safety belt extension assembly If the safety belt is too short when fully extended, a 9 inch (23 cm) or 12 inch (31 cm) safety belt extension assembly can be added (part numbers 611C22–A and 611C22–B respectively). These assemblies can be obtained from an authorized dealer. Use only extensions manufactured by the same supplier as the safety belt. Manufacturer identification is located at the end of the webbing on the label. Also, use the safety belt extension only if the safety belt is too short for you when fully extended.

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Do not use extensions to change the fit of the shoulder belt across the torso.

Safety belt maintenance Inspect the safety belt systems periodically to make sure they work properly and are not damaged. Inspect the safety belts to make sure there are no nicks, tears or cuts, replacing if necessary. All safety belt assemblies, including retractors, buckles, front safety belt buckle assemblies, buckle support assemblies (slide bar-if equipped), shoulder belt height adjusters (if equipped), child safety seat tether bracket assemblies (if equipped), LATCH child seat tether anchors and lower anchors (if equipped), and attaching hardware, should be inspected after a collision. Ford recommends that all safety belt assemblies in use in vehicles involved in a collision be replaced. However, if the collision was minor and an authorized dealer finds that the belts do not show damage and continue to operate properly, they do not need to be replaced, except as described in the Replacing the front safety belt assemblies after a collision section of this chapter. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.

Failure to inspect and if necessary replace the safety belt assembly under the above conditions could result in severe

personal injuries in the event of a collision.

Refer to Interior in the Cleaning chapter.

Replacing the front safety belt assemblies after a collision The front outboard safety belt assemblies have a special energy management retractors designed to further reduce the risk of injury in the event of a head-on collision. These retractors should be replaced if they were used in any accident in which the front airbags deploy. If the safety belt assemblies are not replaced, there may be increased risk of injury in the event of a subsequent collision.

Failure to inspect and if necessary replace the safety belt assembly under the above conditions could result in severe

personal injuries in the event of a collision.

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AIRBAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

The airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) is designed to work in conjunction with the safety belts to help protect the driver and front outboard passenger from certain upper body injuries. The term “supplemental restraint” means the airbags are intended as a supplement to the safety belts. Airbags alone cannot protect as well as airbags plus safety belts in impacts for which the airbags are designed to deploy, and airbags do not offer any protection in crashes for which they do not deploy.

Important SRS precautions The SRS is designed to work with the safety belt to help protect the driver and right front passenger from certain upper body injuries. Airbags DO NOT inflate slowly; there is a risk of injury from a deploying airbag.

All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag

supplemental restraint system (SRS) is provided.

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Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends a minimum distance of at least 10 inches (25 cm)

between an occupant’s chest and the driver airbag module.

Never place your arm over the airbag module as a deploying airbag can result in serious arm fractures or other injuries.

To properly position yourself away from the airbag: • Move your seat to the rear as far as you can while still reaching the • Recline the seat slightly one or two degrees from the upright position.

pedals comfortably.

Do not put anything on or over the airbag module. Placing objects on or over the airbag inflation area may cause those

objects to be propelled by the airbag into your face and torso causing serious injury.

Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the airbag supplemental restraint systems or its fuses. See your authorized

dealer.

Modifying or adding equipment to the front end of the vehicle (including frame, bumper, front end body structure and tow

hooks) may affect the performance of the airbag system, increasing the risk of injury. Do not modify the front end of the vehicle.

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Children and airbags Children must always be properly restrained. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Airbags can kill or injure a child in a child seat.

NEVER place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active airbag. If you must use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the way back.

How does the airbag supplemental restraint system work? The airbag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains longitudinal deceleration sufficient to cause the sensors to close an electrical circuit that initiates airbag inflation. The fact that the airbags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were not of the type sufficient to cause activation. Front airbags are designed to inflate in frontal and near-frontal collisions, not rollover, side-impact, or rear-impacts unless the collision causes sufficient longitudinal deceleration.

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The airbags inflate and deflate rapidly upon activation. After airbag deployment, it is normal to notice a smoke-like, powdery residue or smell the burnt propellant. This may consist of cornstarch, talcum powder (to lubricate the bag) or sodium compounds (e.g., baking soda) that result from the combustion process that inflates the airbag. Small amounts of sodium hydroxide may be present which may irritate the skin and eyes, but none of the residue is toxic. While the system is designed to help reduce serious injuries, contact with a deploying airbag may also cause abrasions, swelling or temporary hearing loss. Because airbags must inflate rapidly and with considerable force, there is the risk of death or serious injuries such as fractures, facial and eye injuries or internal injuries, particularly to occupants who are not properly restrained or are otherwise out of position at the time of airbag deployment. Thus, it is extremely important that occupants be properly restrained as far away from the airbag module as possible while maintaining vehicle control.

Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.

If the air bag has deployed, the air bag will not function again and must be replaced immediately. If the air bag is not

replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.

airbags).

The SRS consists of: • driver and passenger airbag modules (which include the inflators and • side airbags (if equipped). Refer to Side airbag system later in this • one or more impact and safing sensors.

chapter.

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Seating and Safety Restraints • a readiness light and tone. • diagnostic module. • and the electrical wiring which connects the components. The diagnostic module monitors its own internal circuits and the supplemental airbag electrical system wiring (including the impact sensors), the system wiring, the airbag system readiness light, the airbag back up power and the airbag ignitors.

Front passenger sensing system The front passenger sensing system is designed to meet the regulatory requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 208
and is designed to disable (will not inflate) the front passenger’s frontal airbag under certain conditions. The front passenger sensing system works with sensors that are part of the front passenger’s seat and safety belt. The sensors are designed to detect the presence of a properly seated occupant and determine if the front passenger’s frontal airbag should be enabled (may inflate) or disabled (will not inflate). The front passenger sensing system will disable (will not inflate) the front passenger’s frontal airbag if: • the front passenger seat is unoccupied, or has small/medium objects in • the system determines that an infant is present in a rear-facing infant • the system determines that a small child is present in a forward-facing

seat that is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions,

the front seat,

child restraint that is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions,

• the system determines that a small child is present in a booster seat, • a front passenger takes his/her weight off of the seat for a period of • a child or a small person occupies the front passenger seat.

time,

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For side airbag equipped vehicles, the front passenger sensing system will turn off the passenger seat side airbag if: • the seat is empty and safety belt is unbuckled. The front passenger sensing system uses a ⬙passenger airbag off⬙ or ⬙pass airbag off⬙ indicator which will illuminate and stay lit to remind you that the front passenger frontal airbag is disabled. The indicator lamp is located in the center stack of the instrument panel to the right of the radio. Note: The indicator lamp will illuminate for a short period of time when the ignition is turned to the ON position to confirm it is functional. When the front passenger seat is not occupied (empty seat) or in the event that the front passenger frontal airbag is enabled (may inflate), the indicator lamp will be unlit. The front passenger sensing system is designed to disable (will not inflate) the front passenger’s frontal airbag when a rear facing infant seat, a forward-facing child restraint, or a booster seat is detected. • When the front passenger sensing system disables (will not inflate) the front passenger frontal airbag, the indicator lamp will illuminate and stay lit to remind you that the front passenger frontal airbag is disabled. • If the child restraint has been installed and the indicator lamp is not

lit, then turn the vehicle off, remove the child restraint from the vehicle and reinstall the restraint following the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions.

The front passenger sensing system is designed to enable (may inflate) the front passenger’s frontal airbag anytime the system senses that a person of adult size is sitting properly in the front passenger seat. • When the front passenger sensing system enables the front passenger frontal airbag (may inflate), the indicator will be unlit and stay unlit.

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full upright position.

If a person of adult size is sitting in the front passenger’s seat, but the ⬙passenger airbag off⬙ or ⬙pass airbag off⬙ indicator lamp is lit, it is possible that the person isn’t sitting properly in the seat. If this happens: • Turn the vehicle off and ask the person to place the seatback in the • Have the person sit upright in the seat, centered on the seat cushion, • Restart the vehicle and have the person remain in this position for about two minutes. This will allow the system to detect that person and enable the passenger’s frontal airbag. • If the indicator lamp remains lit even after this, the person should be

with the person’s legs comfortably extended.

advised to ride in the rear seat.

Occupant

Empty seat Small child in child safety seat or booster Small child with safety belt buckled or unbuckled Adult

Pass Airbag Off Indicator Lamp Unlit Lit

Lit

Unlit

Passenger Airbag

Disabled Disabled

Disabled

Enabled

Even with Advanced Restraints Systems, children 12 and under should be properly restrained in the back seat.

After all occupants have adjusted their seats and put on safety belts, it’s very important that they continue to sit properly. A properly seated occupant sits upright, leaning against the seat back, and centered on the seat cushion, with their feet comfortably extended on the floor. Sitting improperly can increase the chance of injury in a crash event. For example, if an occupant slouches, lies down, turns sideways, sits forward, leans forward or sideways, or puts one or both feet up, the chance of injury during a crash is greatly increased.

Sitting improperly out of position or with the seat back reclined too far can take off weight from the seat cushion and affect the

decision of the front passenger sensing system, resulting in serious injury or death in a crash. Always sit upright against your seatback, with your feet on the floor.

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Lit

Lit

Disabled

Disabled

Disabled

Objects

Passenger Airbag

The front passenger sensing system may detect small or medium objects placed on the seat cushion. For most objects that are in the front passenger seat, the passenger airbag will be disabled. Even though the passenger airbag is disabled, the ⬙pass airbag off⬙ lamp may or may not be illuminated according to the table below. Pass Airbag Off Indicator Lamp Unlit

Small (i.e. 3 ring binder, small purse, bottled water) Medium (i.e. heavy briefcase, fully packed luggage) Empty seat, Small or medium object with safety belt buckled If you think that the status of the passenger airbag off indicator lamp is incorrect, check for the following: • Objects lodged underneath the seat • Objects between the seat cushion and the center console (if • Objects hanging off the seat back • Objects stowed in the seatback map pocket (if equipped) • Objects placed on the occupant’s lap • Cargo interference with the seat • Other passengers pushing or pulling on the seat • Rear passenger feet and knees resting or pushing on the seat The conditions listed above may cause the weight of a properly seated occupant to be incorrectly interpreted by the passenger sensing system. The person in the front passenger seat may appear heavier or lighter due to the conditions described in the list above.

equipped)

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To reduce the risk of possible serious injury: Do not stow objects in seat back map pocket (if equipped) or

hang objects off seat back if a child is in the front passenger seat. Do not place objects underneath the front passenger seat or between the seat and the center console (if equipped). Check the “passenger airbag off” or “pass airbag off” indicator lamp for proper airbag status. Failure to follow these instructions may interfere with the front passenger seat sensing system.

In case there is a problem with the front passenger sensing system, the airbag readiness lamp in the instrument cluster will stay lit. If the airbag readiness lamp is lit, do the following: The driver and/or adult passengers should check for any objects that may be lodged underneath the front passenger seat or cargo interfering with the seat. If objects are lodged and/or cargo is interfering with the seat; please take the following steps to remove the obstruction: • Pull the vehicle over. • Turn the vehicle off. • Driver and/or adult passengers should check for any objects lodged • Remove the obstruction(s) (if found). • Restart the vehicle. • Wait at least 2 minutes and verify that the airbag readiness light is no • If the airbag readiness lamp remains illuminated, this may or may/not

underneath the front passenger seat or cargo interfering with the seat.

longer illuminated

be a problem due to the front passenger sensing system.

DO NOT attempt to repair or service the system; take your vehicle immediately to an authorized dealer.

The front passenger airbag is not designed to offer protection to an occupant in the center seating position.

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An out of position front center occupant could affect the decision of the front passenger sensing system.

If it is necessary to modify an advanced front airbag system to accommodate a person with disabilities, contact the Ford Customer Relationship Center at the phone number shown in the Customer Assistance chapter of this Owner’s Guide.

Any alteration/modification to the front passenger seat may affect the performance of the front passenger sensing system.

Determining if the system is operational The supplemental restraint system uses a warning indicator light in the instrument cluster or a back-up tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the Warning lights and chimes section in the Instrument Cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the airbag is not required. A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following: • The readiness light (same light for front and side airbag system) will either flash or stay lit. • The readiness light will not • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat

illuminate immediately after ignition is turned on.

periodically until the problem and/or light are repaired.

If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the supplemental restraint system serviced at an authorized dealer immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision.

Seat-mounted side airbag system (if equipped)

Do not place objects or mount equipment on or near the airbag cover on the side of the seatbacks of the front seats or in front seat areas that may come into contact with a deploying airbag. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of personal injury in the event of a collision.

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Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side airbags and

increase the risk of injury in an accident.

Do not lean your head on the door. The side airbag could injure you as it deploys from the side of the seatback.

Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the airbag SRS, its fuses or the seat cover on a seat containing an airbag. See your

authorized dealer.

All occupants of the vehicle should always wear their safety belts even when an airbag SRS is provided.

How does the side airbag system work? The design and development of the side airbag system included recommended testing procedures that were developed by a group of automotive safety experts known as the Side Airbag Technical Working Group. These recommended testing procedures help reduce the risk of injuries related to the deployment of side airbags. The side airbag system consists of the following: • An inflatable nylon bag (airbag) with a gas generator concealed behind the outboard bolster of the driver and front passenger seatbacks. • A special seat cover designed to • The same readiness airbag light, electronic control and diagnostic unit as used for the front airbags. • Two crash sensors located under

allow airbag deployment.

the outboard side of the front seats, attached to the floor.

Side airbags, in combination with safety belts, can help reduce the risk of severe injuries in the event of a significant side impact collision.

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The side airbags are fitted on the outboard side of the seatbacks of the front seats. In certain lateral collisions, the airbag on the side affected by the collision will be inflated, even if the respective seat is not occupied. The airbag was designed to inflate between the door panel and occupant to further enhance the protection provided occupants in side impact collisions. The airbag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains lateral deceleration sufficient to cause the sensors to close an electrical circuit that initiates airbag inflation. The fact that the airbags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were not of the type sufficient to cause activation. Side airbags are designed to inflate in side-impact collisions, not roll-over, rear-impact, frontal or near-frontal collisions, unless the collision causes sufficient lateral deceleration.

Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.

If the side airbag has deployed, the airbag will

not function again. The side airbag system (including the seat) must be inspected and serviced by an authorized dealer. If the airbag is not replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.

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Safety Canopy姟 system (if equipped)

Do not place objects or mount equipment on or

near the headliner at the siderail that may come into contact with a deploying Safety Canopy娂. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of personal injury in the event of a collision.

Do not lean your head on the door. The Safety Canopy娂 could injure you as it deploys from the headliner.

Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the Safety Canopy娂 system, its fuses, the A, B, C or D pillar trim, or the headliner on

a vehicle containing a Safety Canopy娂. See your authorized dealer.

All occupants of the vehicle including the driver should always wear their safety belts even when an airbag SRS and Safety

Canopy娂 system is provided.

To reduce risk of injury, do not obstruct or place objects in the deployment path of the inflatable Safety Canopy娂.

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How does the Safety Canopy姟 system work? The design and development of the Safety Canopy娂 system included recommended testing procedures that were developed by a group of automotive safety experts known as the Side Airbag Technical Working Group. These recommended testing procedures help reduce the risk of injuries related to the deployment of side airbags (including the Safety Canopy娂). The front passenger sensing system will disable the side airbag if the seat is empty. The Safety Canopy娂 system consists of the following: • An inflatable nylon curtain with a

on each side).

gas generator concealed behind the headliner and above the doors (one on each side of vehicle).

Canopy娂 deployment.

as used for the front airbags.

• A headliner designed to flex open above the side doors to allow Safety • The same readiness airbag light, electronic control and diagnostic unit • Two crash sensors mounted under the front seats (one on each side). • Two crash sensors located at the c-pillar behind the rear doors (one • Rollover sensor in the restraints control module (RCM). The Safety Canopy娂 system, in combination with safety belts, can help reduce the risk of severe injuries in the event of a significant side impact collision or rollover event. Children 12 years old and under should always be properly restrained in the second or third row seats. The Safety Canopy娂 will not interfere with children restrained using a properly installed child or booster seat because it is designed to inflate downward from the headliner above the doors along the side window opening.

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The Safety Canopy娂 system is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains lateral deceleration sufficient to cause the side crash sensor to close an electrical circuit that initiates Safety Canopy娂 inflation or when a certain likelihood of a rollover event is detected by the rollover sensor. The Safety Canopy娂 is mounted to roof side-rail sheet metal, behind the headliner, along the entire side of the vehicle. In certain lateral collisions or rollover events, the Safety Canopy娂 system will be activated, regardless of which seats are occupied. The Safety Canopy娂 is designed to inflate between the side window area and occupants to further enhance protection provided in side impact collisions and rollover events. The fact that the Safety Canopy娂 did not activate in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were not of the type sufficient to cause activation. The Safety Canopy娂 is designed to inflate in certain side impact collisions or rollover events, not in rear impact, frontal or near-frontal collisions, unless the collision causes sufficient lateral deceleration or rollover.

Several Safety Canopy娂 system components get hot after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.

If the Safety Canopy娂 system has deployed, the

Safety Canopy娂 will not function again unless replaced. The Safety Canopy娂 system (including the A, B, C, and D pillar trim) must be inspected and serviced by an authorized dealer. If the Safety Canopy娂 is not replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Determining if the system is operational The SRS uses a readiness light in the instrument cluster or a tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the Airbag readiness section in the Instrument Cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the airbag is not required.

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either flash or stay lit.

Any difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following: • The readiness airbag light (same light as for front airbag system) will • The readiness light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat

turned on.

periodically until the problem and light are repaired.

If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the SRS serviced at your an authorized dealer immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision or rollover event.

Disposal of airbags and airbag equipped vehicles (including pretensioners) See your authorized dealer. Airbags MUST BE disposed of by qualified personnel.

SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN See the following sections for directions on how to properly use safety restraints for children. Also see Airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) in this chapter for special instructions about using airbags.

Important child restraint precautions You are required by law to use safety restraints for children in the U.S. and Canada. If small children (generally children who are four years old or younger and who weigh 40 lb. [18 kg] or less) ride in your vehicle, you must put them in safety seats made especially for children. Many states require that children use approved booster seats until they are eight years old. Check your local and state or provincial laws for specific requirements regarding the safety of children in your vehicle. When possible, always place children under age 12 in the rear seat of your vehicle. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position.

Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from

injury in a collision.

Always follow the instructions and warnings that come with any infant or child restraint you might use.

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Children and safety belts If the child is the proper size, restrain the child in a safety seat. Children who are too large for child safety seats (as specified by your child safety seat manufacturer) should always wear safety belts. Follow all the important safety restraint and airbag precautions that apply to adult passengers in your vehicle. If the shoulder belt portion of a combination lap and shoulder belt can be positioned so it does not cross or rest in front of the child’s face or neck, the child should wear the lap and shoulder belt. Moving the child closer to the center of the vehicle may help provide a good shoulder belt fit.

Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets unattended in your vehicle.

Child booster seats Children outgrow a typical convertible or toddler seat when they weigh 40 lb. (18 kg) and are around 4 years of age. Although the lap/shoulder belt will provide some protection, these children are still too small for lap/shoulder belts to fit properly, which could increase the risk of serious injury. To improve the fit of both the lap and shoulder belt on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford Motor Company recommends use of a belt-positioning booster. Booster seats position a child so that safety belts fit better. They lift the child up so that the lap belt rests low across the hips and the knees bend comfortably. Booster seats also make the shoulder belt fit better and more comfortably for growing children. When children should use booster seats Children need to use booster seats from the time they outgrow the toddler seat until they are big enough for the vehicle seat and lap/shoulder belt to fit properly. Generally this is when they weigh about 80 lb. (36 kg) (about 8 to 12 years old).

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Booster seats should be used until you can answer YES to ALL of these questions: • Can the child sit all the way back against the vehicle seat back with knees bent comfortably at the edge of the seat without slouching?

the hips?

the shoulder and chest?

• Does the lap belt rest low across • Is the shoulder belt centered on • Can the child stay seated like this for the whole trip? Types of booster seats There are two types of belt-positioning booster seats: • Those that are backless.

If your backless booster seat has a removable shield, remove the shield and use the lap/shoulder belt. If a seating position has a low seat back and no head restraint, a backless booster seat may place your child’s head (top of ear level) above the top of the seat. In this case, move the backless booster to another seating position with a higher seat back and lap/shoulder belts.

• Those with a high back.

If, with a backless booster seat, you cannot find a seating position that adequately supports your child’s head, a high back booster seat would be a better choice.

Both can be used in any vehicle in a seating position equipped with lap/shoulder belts if your child is over 40 lb. (18 kg).

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The shoulder belt should cross the chest, resting snugly on the center of the shoulder. The lap belt should rest low and snug across the hips, never up high across the stomach. If the booster seat slides on the vehicle seat, placing a rubberized mesh sold as shelf or carpet liner under the booster seat may improve this condition. The importance of shoulder belts Using a booster without a shoulder belt increases the risk of a child’s head hitting a hard surface in a collision. For this reason, you should never use a booster seat with a lap belt only. It is best to use a booster seat with lap/shoulder belts in the back seat- the safest place for children to ride.

Follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer of the booster seat.

Never put the shoulder belt under a child’s arm or behind the back because it eliminates the protection for the upper part of

the body and may increase the risk of injury or death in a collision.

Never use pillows, books, or towels to boost a child. They can slide around and increase the likelihood of injury or death in a

collision.

Child booster seats Children outgrow a typical convertible or toddler seat when they weigh 40 lb. (18 kg) and are around 4 years of age. Although the lap/shoulder belt will provide some protection, these children are still too small for lap/shoulder belts to fit properly, which could increase the risk of serious injury in a crash. To improve the fit of both the lap and shoulder belt on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford Motor Company recommends use of a belt-positioning booster. Booster seats position a child so that safety belts fit better. They lift the child up so that the lap belt rests low across the hips and the knees bend comfortably. Booster seats may also make the shoulder belt fit better and more comfortably. Try to keep the belt near the middle of the shoulder.

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When children should use booster seats Children need to use booster seats from the time they outgrow the toddler seat until they are big enough for the vehicle seat and lap/shoulder belt to fit properly. Generally this is when they weigh about 80 lb. (36 kg) (about 8 to 12 years old). Booster seats should be used until you can answer YES to ALL of these questions: • Can the child sit all the way back against the vehicle seat back with knees bent comfortably at the edge of the seat without slouching?

• Does the lap belt rest low across the hips?