2004 Subaru Legacy Owners Manual

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3-17

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

*SRS airbag (Supplemental Restraint

Installing child restraint systems with A/ELR seatbelt ............................................................ 1-41
Installing a booster seat ................................... 1-46
Installation of child restraint systems by use of lower and tether anchorages (LATCH) .... 1-48
Top tether anchorages ..................................... 1-52
System airbag) ........................................... 1-57
Vehicle with driver’s and front passenger’s 1-57
SRS airbags and lap/shoulder restraints ..... 1-62
SRS frontal airbag ............................................ 1-70
SRS side airbag (if equipped) .......................... 1-78
SRS airbag system monitors ........................... SRS airbag system servicing .......................... 1-79
Precautions against vehicle modification ...... 1-80

Front seats .................................................... Fore and aft adjustment ................................... Seat cushion angle and height adjustment (Power seat only) ........................................... Reclining the seatback ..................................... Head restraint adjustment ................................ Lumbar support (if equipped) .......................... Seat heater (if equipped) .............................. Rear seats ..................................................... Armrest (if equipped) ........................................ Headrest adjustment – Rear center seating position on Station wagon ............................ Folding down the rear seat – Station wagon .. Seatbelts ....................................................... Seatbelt safety tips ........................................... Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) .............. Automatic/Emergency Locking Retractor (A/ELR) ............................................................ Seatbelt warning light and chime ................... Fastening the seatbelt ...................................... Seatbelt maintenance ....................................... Seatbelt extender ......................................... Front seatbelt pretensioners ....................... System monitors ............................................... System servicing .............................................. Precautions against vehicle modification ...... Child restraint systems ................................ Where to place a child restraint system ......... Choosing a child restraint system ..................

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Front seats

(cid:121) Never adjust the seat while driving to avoid the possibility of loss of vehicle control and of personal injury. (cid:121) Before adjusting the seat, make sure the hands and feet of rear seat passengers are clear of the adjusting mechanism. (cid:121) Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. To reduce the risk of sliding under the seatbelt in a collision, the front seatbacks should be always used in the upright position while the vehicle is running. If the front seat- backs are not used in the upright position in a collision, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious in- ternal injury or death. (cid:121) The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag deploys could suffer very serious injuries. Because the SRS airbag needs enough space for deploy- ment, the driver should always sit upright and

1-2

well back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full ve- hicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat.

HS1034BA

Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, especially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not

restrained or improperly restrained. Because children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deployment is greater. For that reason, we strongly recom- mend that ALL children (including those in child seats and those that have outgrown child restraint devices) sit in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child restraint device or in a seatbelt, whichever is appropriate for the child’s age, height and weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (in- cluding forward facing child seat) in the REAR seats at all times. NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seat- ing positions than in the front seating posi- tions. For instructions and precautions con- cerning child restraint systems, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Fore and aft adjustment (cid:84) Manual type

UB1058BA

Pull the lever upward and slide the seat to the desired position. Then release the lever and move the seat- back and forth to make sure that it is securely locked into place.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:84) Power seat (if equipped)

(cid:132) Seat cushion angle and height adjust-

ment (Power seat only)

To adjust the seat forward or backward, move the con- trol switch forward or backward.

UB1060BA

UB1078BA

1-4

To adjust the angle and height of the seat cushion, move the control switch in the corresponding direction.

UB1062BA

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Reclining the seatback

HS1037BA

To prevent the passenger from sliding under the seatbelt in the event of a collision, always put the seatback in the upright position while the vehicle is in motion. Also, do not place ob- jects such as cushions between the passenger and the seatback. If you do so, the risk of slid- ing under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:84) Manual type

(cid:84) Power seat (if equipped)

UB1072BA

UB1084BA

Pull the reclining lever up and adjust the seatback to the desired position. Then release the lever and make sure the seat is securely locked into place. The seatback placed in a reclined position can spring back upward with force when released. When operat- ing the reclining lever to return the seatback, hold it lightly so that it may be raised back gradually.

To adjust the angle of the seatback, move the control switch. NOTE While adjusting the seatback, you can not at the same time adjust the seat position or the seat cushion angle and height.

1-6

(cid:132) Head restraint adjustment

the vehicle is struck from the rear.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1016BA

To raise the head restraint, pull it up. To lower it, push the head restraint down while pressing the release button on the top of the seatback. The head restraint should be adjusted so that the cen- ter of the head restraint is closest to the top of the oc- cupant’s ears.

Never drive the vehicle with the head restraints removed because they are designed to reduce the risk of serious neck injury in the event that

NOTE If the seatback is reclined rearward to the same level as the rear seat cushion with the head re- straint removed, a wide flat bed is made available.

(cid:121) Never drive your car with the seats converted in a flat bed position. If you do so, occupants will have a greater chance of being injured even during simple deceleration, acceleration and cornering since no firm restraint will be avail- able for them. (cid:121) Before you lie on the flat bed to take a rest, read the description “Parking your vehicle” in Chapter 7 carefully and follow the instructions.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Lumbar support (if equipped)

UBS011AA

1. Slide the front seat forward as far as possible. 2. Pull off the head restraint while pressing the re- lease button. 3. Recline the seatback rearward up to the lowest po- sition. Remember to reinstall the head restraint when- ever the seatback is raised back.

Pull the lever forward or backward. Pulling the lever forward will increase the amount of support for your lower back.

UB1059BA

1-8

Seat heater (if equipped)

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1073BB

1) Heating element The seat heater operates when the ignition switch is either in the “ACC” or “ON” position.

LO

HI

UB1093BB

1) Indicator light To turn on the seat heater, push the “LO” or “HI” posi- tion on the switch, as desired, depending on the tem- perature. Selecting the “HI” position will cause the seat to heat up quicker. LO: Normal heating HI: Rapid heating The indicator located on the switch comes on when the seat heater is in operation. When the vehicle’s in- terior is warmed enough or before you leave the vehi- cle, be sure to turn the switch off.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:121) There is a possibility that people with delicate skin may suffer slight burns even at low tem- peratures if he/she uses the seat heater for a long period of time. When using the heater, al- ways be sure to warn the persons concerned. (cid:121) Do not put anything on the seat which insu- lates against heat, such as a blanket, cushion, or similar items. This may cause the seat heater to overheat.

NOTE (cid:121) Use of the seat heater for a long period of time while the engine is not running can cause battery discharge. (cid:121) When cleaning the seat, do not use benzine, paint thinner, or any similar materials.

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Rear seats

UB0302

Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. Do not put cushions or any other materials be- tween occupants and seatbacks or seat cush- ions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Armrest (if equipped)

HS8005BA

UB1068BA

Never stack luggage or other cargo higher than the top of the seatback because it could tumble forward and injure passengers in the event of a sudden stop or accident.

Sedan

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:84) Loading long objects (Sedan)

Station wagon To lower the armrest, pull on the top edge of the arm- rest.

UB1100BA

To avoid the possibility of serious injury, pas- sengers must never be allowed to sit on the center armrest while the vehicle is in motion.

UB1052BA

Folding down the armrest and opening the seatback panel affords a loading space for long objects. To open the seatback panel, pull the panel down while pressing the release tab down.

(cid:121) Secure long objects properly to prevent them from shooting forward and causing serious in- jury during a sudden stop or sharp cornering. Tie long objects down with a rope or something equivalent. (cid:121) Avoid loading objects longer than 6.6 ft (2 m)

1-12

and heavier than 55 lbs (25 kg). Such objects can interfere with the driver’s proper operation of the car, possibly causing an accident and se- rious injury.

(cid:132) Headrest adjustment – Rear center seating position on Station wagon

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1053BA

UB1099BA

To raise the headrest, pull it up. To lower it, push the headrest down while pressing the release button on the top of the seatback. When the rear center seating position is occupied, place the headrest in its highest position. When the rear center seating position is not occupied, lower the headrest to improve rearward visibility.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Folding down the rear seat – Station

wagon

(cid:84) Folding down the seatback

(cid:121) After returning the rear seat to its original po- sition, be certain to place all of the seatbelts and the tab attached to the seat cushion above the seat cushion. And make certain that the shoulder belts are fully visible. (cid:121) Never allow passengers to ride on the folded rear seatback, in the cargo area. Doing so may result in serious injury or death. (cid:121) Secure skis and other lengthy items properly to prevent them from being thrown around in- side the vehicle and causing serious injury dur- ing a sudden stop, a sudden steering or a rapid acceleration.

1-14

UB1094BA

UB1095BA

1. Lower the headrests. 2. Unlock the seatback by pulling the release knob and then fold the seatback down. (cid:84) Folding down the seat cushion and seatback 1. Move the front seat forward. 2. Close the rear passengers’ cup holder and ashtray. 3. Remove the headrests (if so equipped).

Window-side seating positions: Pull the headrest up while pressing the release button located on the backside of the seatback.

UB1096BA

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Center seating position: Pull the headrest up while pressing the release button located on the top of the seatback.

UB1099CA

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1074BB

UB1097BA

1) Seatbelt pocket 2) Buckles of rear center seatbelt 4. Store the seatbelts in the seatbelt pockets to pre- vent them from falling below the cushion.

5. Raise the seat cushion by pulling up the tab. Make certain that the rear passenger’s cup holder is fully retracted before raising the seat cushion.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1027BA

UB1098BA

6. Unlock the seatback by pulling the release knob and fold the seatback down. Confirm that the pin locat- ed at the bottom of the seat cushion is inserted into the slot at the top of the seatback.

7. Install the headrests (if so equipped) onto the back- side of the seatback (window-side positions only). To return the rear seat to its original position, raise the seatback and seat cushion until they lock into place and make sure that they are securely locked. Make sure that the rear seatbelts are not under the seat cushion or seatback. Place the headrests (if so equipped) back in their nor- mal position.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Seatbelts (cid:132) Seatbelt safety tips

(cid:121) All persons in the vehicle should fasten their seatbelts BEFORE the vehicle starts to move. Otherwise, the possibility of serious injury be- comes greater in the event of a sudden stop or accident. (cid:121) All belts should fit snugly in order to provide full restraint. Loose fitting belts are not as ef- fective in preventing or reducing injury. (cid:121) Each seatbelt is designed to support only one person. Never use a single belt for two or more persons – even children. Otherwise, in an accident, serious injury or death could result. (cid:121) Replace all seatbelt assemblies including re- tractors and attaching hardware worn by occu- pants of a vehicle that has been in a serious ac- cident. The entire assembly should be replaced even if damage is not obvious. (cid:121) Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, espe-

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cially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Be- cause children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deploy- ment is greater. For that reason, we strongly recommend that ALL children (including those in child seats and those that have outgrown child restraint devices) sit in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child re- straint device or in a seatbelt, whichever is ap- propriate for the child’s height and weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (in- cluding forward facing child seats) in the REAR seats at all times. NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seat- ing positions than in the front seating posi- tions. For instructions and precautions con- cerning the child restraint system, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chap- ter.

(cid:84) Infants or small children Use a child restraint system that is suitable for your ve- hicle. See information on “Child restraint systems” in this chapter. (cid:84) Children If a child is too big for a child restraint system, the child should sit in the rear seat and be restrained using the seatbelts. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating po- sitions than in the front seating positions. Never allow a child to stand up or kneel on the seat. If the shoulder portion of the belt crosses the face or neck, move the child closer to the belt buckle to help provide a good shoulder belt fit. Care must be taken to securely place the lap belt as low as possible on the hips and not on the child’s waist. If the shoulder portion of the belt cannot be properly positioned, a child re- straint system should be used. Never place the shoul- der belt under the child’s arm or behind the child’s back.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:84) Expectant mothers

HS1107AA

Expectant mothers also need to use the seatbelts. They should consult their doctor for specific recom- mendations. The lap belt should be worn securely and as low as possible over the hips, not over the waist.

(cid:132) Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) The driver’s seatbelt has an Emergency Locking Re- tractor (ELR). The emergency locking retractor allows normal body movement but the retractor locks automatically during a sudden stop, impact or if you pull the belt very quick- ly out of the retractor.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) Automatic/Emergency Locking Retrac-

tor (A/ELR)

Each passenger’s seatbelt has an Automatic/Emer- gency Locking Retractor (A/ELR). The Automatic/ Emergency Locking Retractor normally functions as an Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR). The A/ELR has an additional locking mode “Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode” intended to secure a child re- straint system. When the seatbelt is once drawn out completely and is then retracted even slightly, the re- tractor locks the seatbelt in that position and the seat- belt cannot be extended. As the belt is rewinding, clicks will be heard which indicate the retractor func- tions as ALR. When the seatbelt is retracted fully, ALR mode is released. When securing a child restraint system on the passen- gers’ seats, the seatbelt must be changed over to the Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) mode. When the child restraint system is removed, make sure that the retractor is restored to the Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) function by allowing the seat- belt to retract fully. For instructions on how to convert the retractor to the ALR mode and restore it to the ELR mode, see the “Child restraint systems” section in this chapter.

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(cid:132) Seatbelt warning light and chime Your vehicle is equipped with a seatbelt warning de- vice at the driver’s seat. This device causes the seatbelt warning light on the instrument panel to light up for about six seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position to remind the driver to wear the seatbelt. If the driver’s seatbelt is not fastened, a warning chime sounds at the same time.

(cid:132) Fastening the seatbelt

(cid:121) Never use a belt that is twisted or reversed. In an accident, this can increase the risk or sever- ity of injury. (cid:121) Keep the lap belt as low as possible on your hips. In a collision, this spreads the force of the lap belt over stronger hip bones instead of across the weaker abdomen. (cid:121) Seatbelts provide maximum restraint when the occupant sits well back and upright in the seat. To reduce the risk of sliding under the seatbelt in a collision, the front seatbacks should be always used in the upright position while the vehicle is running. If the front seat-

backs are not used in the upright position in a collision, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious in- ternal injury or death. (cid:121) Do not put cushions or any other materials between occupants and seatbacks or seat cushions. If you do so, the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen will increase, and both can result in serious internal injury or death.

HS1049BA

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Never place the shoulder belt under the arm or behind the back. If an accident occurs, this can increase the risk or severity of injury.

Metallic parts of the seatbelt can become very hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sun- ny weather; they could burn an occupant. Do not touch such hot parts until they cool.

(cid:84) Front seatbelts 1. Adjust the seat position: Driver’s seat: Adjust the seatback to the upright posi- tion. Move the seatback as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full vehicle control. Front passenger’s seat: Adjust the seatback to the upright position. Move the seat as far back as possi- ble. 2. Sit well back in the seat. 3. Pick up the tongue plate and pull the belt out slowly. Do not let it get twisted. If the belt stops before reach- ing the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out – CONTINUED – 1-21

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving it a strong pull, then pull it out slowly again.

4. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.

HS1050BA

HS1051BA

5. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. 6. Place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.

1-22

(cid:86) Adjusting the front seat shoulder belt anchor

height

HS1052BA

The shoulder belt anchor height should be adjusted to the position best suited for you. To lower the anchor height, push the release button and slide the anchor down. To raise the anchor height, slide the anchor up. Pull down on the anchor to make sure that it is locked in place. Always adjust the anchor height so that the shoulder belt passes over the middle of the shoulder without touching the neck.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

When wearing the seatbelts, make sure the shoulder portion of the webbing does not pass over your neck. If it does, adjust the seatbelt an- chor to a lower position. Placing the shoulder belt over the neck may result in neck injury dur- ing sudden braking or in a collision.

(cid:86) Unfastening the seatbelt

HS1053BA

Push the button on the buckle. Before closing the door, make sure that the belts are – CONTINUED – 1-23

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

retracted properly to avoid catching the belt webbing in the door. (cid:84) Rear seatbelts (except rear center seatbelt on

wagon)

1. Sit well back in the seat. 2. Pick up the tongue plate and pull the belt out slowly. Do not let it get twisted. If the belt stops before reach- ing the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving a strong pull on it, then pull it out slowly again.

HS1051BA

4. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. 5. Place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.

3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.

HS1050BA

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(cid:86) Unfastening the seatbelt

(cid:84) Rear center seatbelt on wagon model

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1053BA

US1017BB

Push the button on the buckle. Before closing the door, make sure that the belts are retracted properly to avoid catching the belt webbing in the door.

1) Center seatbelt tongue plate 2) Connector (tongue) 3) Connector (buckle) 4) Center seatbelt buckle

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1030BA

UB1031BA

Fastening the seatbelt with the webbing twisted can increase the risk or severity of injury in an accident. When fastening the belt after it is pulled out from the retractor, especially when inserting the connector’s tongue plate into the mating buckle (on right-hand side), always check that the webbing is not twisted.

Be sure to fasten both tongue plates to the re- spective buckles. If the seatbelt is used only as a shoulder belt (with the connector’s tongue plate not fastened to the connector’s buckle on the right-hand side), it cannot properly restrain the wearer in position in an accident, possibly resulting in serious injury or death.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1065CA

UB1032BA

Rear-center seatbelt is stowed in the recess of the ceiling. 1. Remove the connector (tongue) plate from the holder located at the front of the recess by pulling the connector (tongue) plate rearward.

2. Pull out the seatbelt slowly from the overhead re- tractor.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1033BA

UB1034BA

3. After confirming that the webbing is not twisted, in- sert the connector (tongue) attached at the webbing end into the buckle on the right-hand side until a click is heard. If the belt stops before reaching the buckle, return the belt slightly and pull it out more slowly. If the belt still cannot be unlocked, let the belt retract slightly after giving it a strong pull, then pull it out slowly again.

4. Insert the center seatbelt tongue plate in the center seatbelt buckle marked “CENTER” on the left-hand side until it clicks.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:86) Unfastening the seatbelt

5. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. And place the lap belt as low as possible on your hips, not on your waist.

HS1061BA

US0317

Push the release button of the center seatbelt buckle (on the left-hand side) to unfasten the seatbelt. NOTE When the seatback is folded down for greater lug- gage space, it is necessary to disconnect the con- nector.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

slot in the connector (buckle) on the right-hand side and push it in, and the connector (tongue) plate will disconnect from the buckle.

UB1036BA

UB1038CA

2. Allow the retractor to roll up the belt. You should hold the webbing end and guide it back into the retrac- tor while it is rolling up. Neatly store the tongue plates in the recess in the retractor and then insert the con- nector (tongue) plate into the slot located at the front of the recess.

1. Insert a key or other hard pointed object into the

UB1037BA

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1048BA

UB1074BB

(cid:121) Do not allow the retractor to roll up the seat- belt too quickly. Otherwise, the metal tongue plates may hit against the trim, resulting in damaged trim. (cid:121) Have the seatbelt fully rolled up so that the tongue plates are neatly stored. A hanging tongue plate can swing and hit against the trim during driving, causing damage to the trim.

1) Seatbelt pocket 2) Buckles of rear center seatbelt NOTE When folding down the rear seat cushion, store the seatbelts in the seatbelt pocket to prevent them falling below the cushion.

(cid:132) Seatbelt maintenance To clean the seatbelts, use a mild soap and lukewarm water. Never bleach or dye the belts because this could seriously affect their strength. Inspect the seatbelts and attachments including the – CONTINUED – 1-31

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

webbing and all hardware periodically for cracks, cuts, gashes, tears, damage, loose bolts or worn areas. Re- place the seatbelts even if only minor damage is found.

(cid:121) Keep the belts free of polishes, oils, chemi- cals and particularly battery acid. (cid:121) Never attempt to make modifications or changes that will prevent the seatbelt from op- erating properly.

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Seatbelt extender If the front seatbelts are not long enough to permit the tongue plate to engage with the seatbelt buckle, an optional seatbelt extender is available from your SUBARU dealer. When ordering an extender, only or- der one particularly designed for your vehicle. Several different types of extenders are available to match var- ious varieties of front seatbelt designs. See your SUBARU dealer for assistance. The extender adds approximately 8 inches (200 mm) of length and it can be used for either the driver or front passenger seating position.

Be sure to observe the following when using the seatbelt extender. Failure to follow these instructions and warn- ings could reduce the effectiveness of the seat- belt and result in more serious injury in the event of a collision. (cid:121) Never use the extender when the belt itself is long enough to permit it to be buckled properly. If removal of heavy clothing is all that is needed to permit the seatbelt to be buckled properly, remove the heavy clothing and do not use the

extender. (cid:121) Do not use the extender if the buckle of the extender rests over the abdomen. (cid:121) Do not let someone else use the extender. Use of an extender when it is not needed could reduce the effectiveness of the seatbelt and re- sult in more serious injury in the event of a col- lision. (cid:121) Use the extender only for the front seatbelts and only for the model for which it was original- ly provided. Never use the extender for the rear seatbelts or for a different model.

NOTE When the seatbelt extender is used by a pregnant passenger, consult a doctor to get approval in ad- vance.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UZS000BA

To connect the extender to the seatbelt, insert the tongue plate into the seatbelt buckle so that the “PRESS” signs on the buckle-release buttons of the extender and the seatbelt are both facing outward as shown in the diagram. You will hear a click when the tongue plate locks into the buckle. When releasing the seatbelt, press on the buckle-re- lease button on the extender, not on the seatbelt. This helps to prevent damage to the vehicle interior and ex- tender itself. For the safety of others, the extender should be re- moved after each use, especially if the next person us- ing the seatbelt does not need one.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Front seatbelt pretensioners

HS1067BA

The driver’s and front passenger’s seatbelts have a seatbelt pretensioner. The seatbelt pretensioners are designed to be activated in the event of an accident in- volving a moderate to severe frontal collision. The pretensioner sensor also serves as a SRS frontal airbag sensor. If the sensor detects a certain predeter- mined amount of force during a frontal collision, the front seatbelt is quickly drawn back in by the retractor to take up the slack so that the belt more effectively re- strains the front seat occupant. When a seatbelt pretensioner is activated, an operat-

1-34

ing noise will be heard and a small amount of smoke will be released. These occurrences are normal and not harmful. This smoke does not indicate a fire in the vehicle. Once the seatbelt pretensioner has been activated, the seatbelt retractor remains locked. Consequently, the seatbelt can not be pulled out and retracted and therefore must be replaced. NOTE (cid:121) Seatbelt pretensioners are not designed to acti- vate in minor frontal impacts, in side or rear im- pacts or in roll-over accidents. (cid:121) The driver’s seat and passenger’s seat preten- sioners and frontal airbag operate simultaneous- ly. (cid:121) Pretensioners are designed to function on a one-time-only basis. In the event that a preten- sioner is activated, both the driver’s and front pas- senger’s seatbelt retractor assemblies must be re- placed and only by an authorized SUBARU dealer. When replacing seatbelt retractor assemblies, use only genuine SUBARU parts. (cid:121) If either front seatbelt does not retract or cannot be pulled out due to a malfunction or activation of the pretensioner, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:121) If the front seatbelt retractor assembly or sur- rounding area has been damaged, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible. (cid:121) When you sell your vehicle, we urge you to ex- plain to the buyer that it has seatbelt pretension- ers by alerting him to the contents of this section.

your SUBARU dealer.

(cid:132) System monitors

(cid:121) To obtain maximum protection, occupants should sit in an upright position with their seat- belts properly fastened. Refer to “Seatbelts” section in this chapter. (cid:121) Do not modify, remove or strike the front seatbelt retractor assemblies or surrounding area. This could result in accidental activation of the seatbelt pretensioners or could make the system inoperative, possibly resulting in seri- ous injury. Seatbelt pretensioners have no user-serviceable parts. For required servicing of front seatbelt retractors equipped with seat- belt pretensioners, see your nearest SUBARU dealer. (cid:121) When discarding front seatbelt retractor as- semblies or scrapping the entire car due to col- lision damage or for other reasons, consult

UB4010EA

SRS airbag system warning light A diagnostic system continually monitors the readi- ness of the seatbelt pretensioner while the vehicle is being driven. The seatbelt pretensioners share the control module with the airbag system. Therefore, if any malfunction occurs in a seatbelt pretensioner, the SRS airbag system warning light will illuminate. The SRS airbag system warning light will show normal sys- tem operation by lighting for about 6 seconds when – CONTINUED – 1-35

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position. The following components are monitored by the indi- cator: (cid:121) Front sub sensor (Right hand side) (cid:121) Front sub sensor (Left hand side) (cid:121) Airbag control module (including impact sensors) (cid:121) Seatbelt pretensioner (Driver’s side) (cid:121) Seatbelt pretensioner (Passenger’s side) (cid:121) All related wiring In the event of a malfunction indicated by any of follow- ing, the vehicle should be taken promptly to your near- est SUBARU dealer to have the system checked. Un- less checked and repaired, the seatbelt pretensioners and airbags will not function reliably: (cid:121) Flashing or flickering of the indicator light. (cid:121) No illumination of the warning light when the ignition switch is first turned to the “ON” position. (cid:121) Continuous illumination of the warning light. (cid:121) Illumination of the warning light while driving.

(cid:132) System servicing

(cid:121) When discarding a seatbelt retractor assem- bly or scrapping the entire car damaged by a

1-36

collision, consult your SUBARU dealer. (cid:121) Tampering with or disconnecting the sys- tem’s wiring could result in accidental activa- tion of the seatbelt pretensioner and/or airbag or could make the system inoperative, which may result in serious injury. The wiring har- nesses of the seatbelt pretensioner and SRS airbag systems are covered with yellow insula- tion and the connectors of the system are yel- low for easy identification. Do not use electrical test equipment on any circuit related to the seatbelt pretensioner and airbag systems. For required servicing of the seatbelt pretensioner, see your nearest SUBARU dealer.

The front sub sensors are located in both front fenders and the airbag control module includ- ing the impact sensors is located under the center console. If you need service or repair in those areas or near the front seatbelt retrac- tors, we recommend that you have an autho- rized SUBARU dealer perform the work.

NOTE If the front part of the vehicle is damaged in an ac- cident to the extent that the seatbelt pretensioner does not operate, contact your SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Child restraint systems

(cid:132) Precautions against vehicle modifica-

tion

Always consult your SUBARU dealer if you want to in- stall any accessory parts to your vehicle.

Do not perform any of the following modifica- tions. Such modifications can interfere with proper operation of the seatbelt pertensioners. (cid:121) Attachment of any equipment (bush bar, winches, snow plow, skid plate, etc.) other than SUBARU genuine accessory parts to the front end. (cid:121) Modification of the suspension system or front end structure. (cid:121) Installation of a tire of different size and con- struction from the tires specified on the tire placard attached to the door jamb.

UB1080BA

Infants and small children should always be placed in an infant or child restraint system in the rear seat while riding in the vehicle. You should use an infant or child restraint system that meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, is compatible with your vehicle and is ap- propriate for the child’s age and size. All child restraint systems are designed to be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or the lap belt portion of a lap/shoulder belt (except those covered under the section in this manu- al, entitled “Installation of child restraint systems by use of lower and tether anchorages (LATCH)”).

– CONTINUED – 1-37

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

Children could be endangered in an accident if their child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle. When installing the child restraint system, carefully fol- low the manufacturer’s instructions. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. All U.S. states and Canadian provinces require that in- fants and small children be restrained in an approved child restraint system at all times while the vehicle is moving.

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 colli- sion, because the child will be caught between the passenger and objects inside the vehicle. Additionally, holding a child in your lap or arms in the front seat exposes that child to another serious danger. Since the SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force, the child could be injured or even killed.

HS1069BA

HS1070BA

1-38

Children should be properly restrained at all times. Never allow a child to stand up, or to kneel on any seat. Unrestrained children will be thrown forward during sudden stop or in an ac- cident and can be injured seriously. Additionally, children standing up or kneeling on or in front of the front seat are exposed an- other serious danger. Since the SRS airbag de- ploys with considerable speed and force, the child could be injured or even killed.

(cid:132) Where to place a child restraint system The following are SUBARU’s recommendations on where to place a child restraint system in your vehicle.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1118AA

A: Front passenger’s seat You should not install a child restraint system due to the hazard to children posed by the passenger’s air- bag. B: Rear seat, window-side seating positions Recommended positions for all types of child restraint systems. In these positions, Automatic/Emergency Locking Re- tractor (A/ELR) seatbelts and lower anchor bars are provided for installing a child restraint system. C: Rear seat, center seating position Installing a child restraint system is not recommended, although the A/ELR seatbelt is provided in this posi- – CONTINUED – 1-39

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

tion. Some types of child restraints might not be able to be secured firmly due to projection of the seat cushion. In this seating position, you should use only a child re- straint system that has a bottom base that fits snugly against the contours of the seat cushion and can be securely retained using the seatbelt.

positions.

(cid:121) Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, espe- cially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Be- cause children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deploy- ment is greater. For that reason, be sure to secure ALL types of child restraint devices (including forward fac- ing child seats) in the REAR seats at all times. You should choose a restraint device which is appropriate for the child’s age, height and weight. According to accident statistics, chil- dren are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating

1-40

HG1043BA

SINCE YOUR VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH A PASSENGER’S SRS AIRBAG, DO NOT IN- STALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SAFETY SEAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER’S SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG.

(cid:132) Choosing a child restraint system

(cid:132) Installing child restraint systems with

A/ELR seatbelt

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UBS108AA

Choose a child restraint system that is appropriate for the child’s age and size (weight and height) in order to provide the child with proper protection. The child re- straint system should meet all applicable requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for United States or Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for Canada. It can be identified by locking for the label on the child restraint system or the manufacture’s state- ment of compliance in the document attached to the system. Also it is important for you to make sure that the child restraint system is compatible with the vehi- cle in which it will be used.

(cid:121) Child restraint systems and seatbelts can be- come hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check the child restraint system before you place a child in it. (cid:121) Do not leave an unsecured child restraint system in your vehicle. Unsecured child re- straint systems can be thrown around inside of the vehicle in a sudden stop, turn or accident; it can strike and injure vehicle occupants as well as result in serious injuries or death to the child.

When you install a child restraint system, fol- low the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with it. After installing the child restraint sys- tem, check to ensure that it is held securely in position. If it is not held tight and secure, the danger of your child suffering personal injury in

– CONTINUED – 1-41

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

the event of an accident may be increased.

(cid:84) Installing a rearward facing child restraint

UBS109BA

1. Place the child restraint system in the rear seating position. 2. Run the lap and shoulder belt through or around the child restraint system following the instructions provided by its manufacturer. 3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.

1-42

UBS110BA

4. Take up the slack in the lap belt. 5. Pull out the seatbelt fully from the retractor to change the retractor over from the Emergency Lock- ing Retractor (ELR) to the Automatic Locking Retrac- tor (ALR) function. Then, allow the belt to rewind into the retractor. As the belt is rewinding, clicks will be heard which indicate the retractor functions as ALR.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UBS111BA

UG1089BA

6. Push and pull the child restraint system forward and from side to side to check if it is firmly secured. Sometimes a child restraint can be more firmly se- cured by pushing it down into the seat cushion and then tightening the seatbelt. 7. Pull at the shoulder portion of the belt to confirm that it cannot be pulled out (ALR properly functioning).

8. To remove the child restraint system, press the re- lease button on the seatbelt buckle and allow the belt to retract completely. The belt will return to the ELR mode.

NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER’S SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG.

– CONTINUED – 1-43

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

NOTE When the child restraint system is no longer in use, remove it and restore the ELR function of the retractor. That function is restored by retracting the seatbelt fully. (cid:84) Installing forward facing child restraint

UB1124BA

1. Place the child restraint system in the seating posi- tion. 2. Run the lap and shoulder belt through or around the child restraint system following the instructions provided by its manufacturer. 3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click.

1-44

UB1125BA

4. Take up the slack in the lap belt. 5. Pull out the seatbelt fully from the retractor to change the retractor over from the Emergency Lock- ing Retractor (ELR) to the Automatic Locking Retrac- tor (ALR) function. Then, allow the belt to rewind into the retractor. As the belt is rewinding, clicks will be heard which indicate the retractor functions as ALR.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1126BA

UG1087BA

6. Before having a child sit in the child restraint sys- tem, move it back and forth and right and left to check if it is firmly secured. Sometimes a child restraint can be more firmly secured by pushing it down into the seat cushion and then tightening the seatbelt. 7. Pull at the shoulder portion of the belt to confirm that it cannot be pulled out (ALR properly functioning).

8. If the child restraint system requires a top tether, – CONTINUED – 1-45

UG1090BA

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

latch the hook onto the top tether anchor and tighten the top tether. See the “Top tether anchorages” for ad- ditional instructions.

(cid:132) Installing a booster seat

(cid:121) Child restraint systems and seatbelts can be- come hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check the child restraint system before you place a child in it. (cid:121) Do not leave an unsecured child restraint system in your vehicle. Unsecured child re- straint systems can be thrown around inside of the vehicle in a sudden stop, turn or accident; it can strike and injure vehicle occupants as well as result in serious injuries or death to the child.

When you install a child restraint system, fol- low the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with it. After installing the child restraint sys- tem, check to ensure that it is held securely in position. If it is not held tight and secure, the danger of your child suffering personal injury in

UG1094BA

9. To remove the child restraint system, press the re- lease button on the seatbelt buckle and allow the belt to retract completely. The belt will return to the ELR mode. NOTE When the child restraint system is no longer in use, remove it and restore the ELR function of the retractor. That function is restored by allowing the seatbelt to retract fully.

1-46

the event of an accident may be increased.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1128BA

4. To remove the booster seat, press the release but- ton on the seatbelt buckle and allow the belt to retract.

UB1152BA

1. Place the booster seat in the rear seating position and sit the child on it. The child should sit well back on the booster seat. 2. Run the lap and shoulder belt through or around the booster seat and the child following the instruc- tions provided by its manufacturer. 3. Insert the tongue plate into the buckle until you hear a click. Take care not to twist the seatbelt. Make sure the shoulder belt is positioned across the center of child’s shoulder and that the lap belt is posi- tioned as low as possible on the child’s hips.

(cid:121) Never use a belt that is twisted or reversed. In an accident, this can increase the risk or sever- ity of injury to the child. (cid:121) Never place the shoulder belt under the child’s arm or behind the child’s back. If an ac- cident occurs, this can increase the risk or se- verity of injury to the child. (cid:121) The seatbelt should fit snugly in order to pro- vide full restraint. Loose fitting belts are not as – CONTINUED – 1-47

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

effective in preventing or reducing injury. (cid:121) Place the lap belt as low as possible on the child’s hips. A high-positioned lap belt will in- crease the risk of sliding under the lap belt and of the lap belt sliding up over the abdomen, and both can result in serious internal injury or death. (cid:121) Make sure the shoulder belt is positioned across the center of child’s shoulder. Placing the shoulder belt over the neck may result in neck injury during sudden braking or in a colli- sion.

(cid:132) Installation of child restraint systems by use of lower and tether anchorages (LATCH)

(cid:121) Child restraint systems and seatbelts can be- come hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check the child restraint system before you place a child in it. (cid:121) Do not leave an unsecured child restraint system in your vehicle. Unsecured child re-

1-48

straint systems can be thrown around inside of the vehicle in a sudden stop, turn or accident; it can strike and injure vehicle occupants as well as result in serious injuries or death to the child.

When you install a child restraint system, fol- low the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with it. After installing the child restraint sys- tem, check to ensure that it is held securely in position. If it is not held tight and secure, the danger of your child suffering personal injury in the event of an accident may be increased.

Some types of child restraint systems can be installed on the rear seat of your vehicle without use of the seat- belts. Such child restraint systems are secured to the dedicated anchorages provided on the vehicle body. The lower and tether anchorages are sometimes re- ferred to as the LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren).

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UB1086CA

UB1090BA

Your vehicle is equipped with four lower anchorages (bars) and three upper anchorages (tether anchorag- es) for accommodating such child restraint systems.

The lower anchorages (bars) are used for installing a child restraint system only on the rear seat window- side seating positions. For each window-side seating position, two lower anchorages are provided. Each lower anchorage is located where the seat cush- ion meets the seatback.

– CONTINUED – 1-49

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

The tether anchorages (upper anchorages) are pro- vided for all the seating positions (middle and both window-side ones) of the rear seat.

You will find marks “ ” at the bottom of the rear seat seatbacks. These marks indicate the positions of the lower anchorages (bars).

UB1087BA

US1078BA

1-50

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

1. Use the “Child” marks to locate the two lower an- chorages (bars) for the position where you want to in- stall the child restraint system.

Each lower anchorage is located where the seat cush- ion meets the seatback.

UB1088BA

When you install a child restraint system, fol- low the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with it. After installing the child restraint sys- tem, check to ensure that it is held securely in position. If it is not held tight and secure, the danger of your child suffering personal injury in the event of an accident may be increased.

US1588CA

2. While following the instructions supplied by the child restraint system manufacturer, connect the low- er hooks onto the lower anchorages located at “ ” marks on the bottom of the rear seatback. When the hooks are connected, make sure the adjacent seat- belts are not caught.

– CONTINUED – 1-51

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

UG1098BA

US1113BA

3. [If your child restraint system is of a flexible attach- ment type (which uses tether belts to connect the child restraint system properly to the lower anchorages)] While pushing the child restraint into the seat cushion, pull both left and right lower tether belts up to secure the child restraint system firmly by taking up the slack in the belt. 4. Connect the top tether hook to the tether anchor- age and firmly tighten the tether. For information on how to set the top tether, read the following “Top tether anchorages”.

5. Before seating a child in the child restraint system, try to move seat back and forth and left and right to verify that it is held securely in position. 6. To remove the child restraint system, follow the re- verse procedures of installation. If you have any question concerning this type of child restraint system, ask your SUBARU dealer.

(cid:132) Top tether anchorages Your vehicle is equipped with three top tether anchor- ages so that a child restraint system having a top teth- er can be installed in the rear seat. When installing a child restraint system using top tether, proceed as fol-

1-52

lows, while observing the instructions by the child re- straint system manufacturer. Since a top tether can provide additional stability by of- fering another connection between a child restraint system and the vehicle, we recommend that you use a top tether whenever one is required or available.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:84) Anchorage location

TOP TETHER

UB1159BB

Sedan A) Center anchorage B) Left (right) anchorage

– CONTINUED – 1-53

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(on Sedan) or on the rear edge of the roof (on Station wagon). (cid:84) To hook the top tether (cid:86) Sedan

TOP TETHER

UB1160BB

Station wagon A) Center anchorage B) Left (right) anchorage Three anchorages, i.e., ones for the right, center and left positions, are already installed on the rear shelf

1-54

UBS063BA

1. Remove the headrest at the seating position where the child seat has been installed with the seatbelt or lower anchorages; lift up the headrest while pressing the release button. Store the headrest in the cargo area. Avoid placing the headrest in the passenger compartment to prevent it from being thrown around in the passenger compart- ment in a sudden stop or a sharp turn.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

2. Fasten the top tether hook of the child restraint sys- tem to the appropriate upper anchorage.

3. Tighten the top tether securely.

UG1087BA

UB1163BA

Do not route the top tether over the headrest. It may happen that the top tether cannot be fas- tened tightly. When the child restraint system is to be se- cured using the top tether, pass the top tether under the headrest between the headrest stay posts. If the top tether still cannot be fastened tightly, remove the headrest.

– CONTINUED – 1-55

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:86) Station wagon

Window-side seating position

UB1096BA

UB1099CA

Center seating position 1. Remove the headrest (if so equipped) at the seat- ing position where the child restraint system has been installed with the seatbelt or lower anchorages; lift up the headrest while pressing the release button. Store the headrest in the cargo area. Avoid placing the headrest in the passenger compartment to prevent it from being thrown around in the passenger compart- ment in a sudden stop or a sharp turn.

1-56

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

*SRS airbag (Supplemental Restraint System airbag) *SRS: This stands for supplemental restraint system. This name is used because the airbag system supple- ments the vehicle’s seatbelts.

(cid:132) Vehicle with driver’s and front passen- ger’s SRS airbags and lap/shoulder re- straints

Your vehicle is equipped with a supplemental restraint system in addition to a lap/shoulder belt at each front seating position. The supplemental restraint system (SRS) consists of two airbags (driver’s and front passenger’s frontal air- bags) or four airbags (driver’s and front passenger’s frontal airbags and driver’s and front passenger’s side airbags). These SRS airbags are designed only as a supple- ment to the primary protection provided by the seatbelt. The system also controls front seatbelt pretensioners. For operation, instructions are precautions concerning the seatbelt pretensioner, see the “Front seatbelt pre- tensioners” section in this chapter.

– CONTINUED – 1-57

2. Fasten the top tether hook of the child restraint sys- tem to the appropriate upper anchorage. 3. Tighten the top tether securely.

UG1090BA

Always remove the headrest when mounting a child restraint system with a top tether. Other- wise, it may happen that the top tether cannot be fastened tightly.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:121) To obtain maximum protection in the event of an accident, the driver and all passengers in the vehicle should always wear seatbelts when the vehicle is moving. The SRS airbag is designed only as a supplement to the primary protection provided by the seatbelt. It does not do away with the need to fasten seatbelts. In combina- tion with the seatbelts, it offers the best com- bined protection in case of a serious accident. Not wearing a seatbelt increases the chance of severe injury or death in a crash even when the car has the SRS airbag. For instructions and precautions concerning the seatbelt system, see the “Seatbelts” sec- tions in this chapter. (cid:121) Do not sit or lean unnecessarily close to the SRS airbag. Because the SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed – faster than the blink of an eye – and force to protect in high speed collisions, the force of an airbag can injure an occupant whose body is too close to SRS air- bag. It is also important to wear your seatbelt to help avoid injuries that can result when the SRS air- bag contacts an occupant not in proper posi-

1-58

tion such as one thrown forward during pre-ac- cident braking. Even when properly positioned, there remains a possibility that an occupant may suffer minor injury such as abrasions and bruises to the face or arms because of the SRS airbag deploy- ment force. (cid:121) The SRS airbags deploy with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag deploys could suffer very serious injuries. Because the SRS airbag needs enough space for deploy- ment, the driver should always sit upright and well back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full ve- hicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat. (cid:121) Do not place any objects over or near the SRS airbag cover or between you and the SRS airbag. If the SRS airbag deploys, those objects could interfere with its proper operation and could be propelled inside the car and cause in- jury.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

es) sit in the REAR seat properly restrained at all times in a child restraint device or in a seat- belt, whichever is appropriate for the child’s age, height and weight. Secure ALL types of child restraint devices (in- cluding forward facing child seats) in the REAR seats at all times. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seat- ing positions than in the front seating posi- tions. For instructions and precautions concerning the child restraint system, see the “Child re- straint systems” section in this chapter. (cid:121) NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG. (cid:121) Never allow a child to stand up, or to kneel on the front passenger’s seat, or never hold a child on your lap or in your arms. The SRS airbag de- ploys with considerable force and can injure or even kill the child.

– CONTINUED – 1-59

HS1034BA

(cid:121) Put children aged 12 and under in the rear seat properly restrained at all times. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force and can injure or even kill children, espe- cially if they are 12 years of age and under and are not restrained or improperly restrained. Be- cause children are lighter and weaker than adults, their risk of being injured from deploy- ment is greater. For that reason, we strongly recommend that ALL children (including those in child seats and those that have outgrown child restraint devic-

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:121) When the SRS airbag deploys, some smoke will be released. This smoke could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. If you or your passengers have breathing problems after SRS airbag deploys, get fresh air promptly. (cid:121) A deploying SRS airbag releases hot gas. Oc- cupants could get burnt if they come into direct contact with the hot gas.

NOTE When you sell your vehicle, we urge you to explain to the buyer that it is equipped with SRS airbags by alerting him to the applicable section in this owner’s manual.

1-60

(cid:84) Components

10

12

11

UB1079DB

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

1) Airbag control module (including

impact sensors)

2) Airbag module (driver’s side) 3) Airbag module (passenger’s

4) Front sub sensor (left hand side) 5) Front sub sensor (right hand

6) Seatbelt pretensioner (driver’s

7) Seatbelt pretensioner (passen-

ger’s side)

8) Side airbag module (driver’s

side – if equipped)

9) Side airbag module (passen-

ger’s side – if equipped)

10) Side airbag sensor (driver’s

side)

side)

side)

side)

side)

11) Side airbag sensor (passenger’s

12) Airbag wiring (yellow)

– CONTINUED – 1-61

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:132) SRS frontal airbag The driver’s SRS frontal airbag is stowed in the center portion of the steering wheel. The passenger’s SRS frontal airbag is stowed near the top of the dashboard under an “SRS AIRBAG” mark. In a moderate to severe frontal collision, the driver’s and front passenger’s SRS frontal airbags deploy and supplement the seatbelts by reducing the impact on the driver’s and front passenger’s head and chest.

RISKS SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE CHILD BY PLACING THE CHILD’S HEAD TOO CLOSE TO THE SRS AIRBAG.

HS1070BA

HG1043BA

Never allow a child to stand up, or to kneel on the front passenger’s seat. The SRS airbag de- ploys with considerable force and can injure or even kill the child.

NEVER INSTALL A REARWARD FACING CHILD SAFETY SEAT IN THE FRONT SEAT. DOING SO

1-62

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1069BA

HS1084BA

Never hold a child on your lap or in your arms. The SRS airbag deploys with considerable force and can injure or even kill the child.

The SRS airbag deploys with considerable speed and force. Occupants who are out of proper position when the SRS airbag deploys could suffer very serious injuries. Because the SRS airbag needs enough space for deploy- ment, the driver should always sit upright and well back in the seat as far from the steering wheel as practical while still maintaining full ve- hicle control and the front passenger should move the seat as far back as possible and sit upright and well back in the seat. It is also important to wear your seatbelt to help – CONTINUED – 1-63

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

avoid injuries that can result when the SRS air- bag contacts an occupant not in proper posi- tion such as one thrown toward the front of the car during pre-accident braking.

UG1514BA

UG1513BA

Do not attach accessories to the windshield, or fit an extra-wide mirror over the rear view mir- ror. If the SRS airbag deploys, those objects could become projectiles that could seriously injure vehicle occupants.

Do not put any objects over the steering wheel pad and dashboard. If the SRS frontal airbag deploys, those objects could interfere with its proper operation and could be propelled inside the vehicle and cause injury.

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(cid:84) Operation

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

A) Driver’s side B) Passenger’s side 1) SRS airbags deploy as soon as a collision occurs. 2) After deployment, SRS airbags start to deflate immediately so that the driver’s vision is not obstructed.

HS1087BB

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

The SRS airbag can function only when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position. If the front sub sensors inside the both front fenders and the impact sensors in the airbag control module detect a certain predetermined amount of force during a frontal collision, the control module sends signals to the frontal airbag modules instructing them to inflate the SRS frontal airbags. Then both airbag modules produce gas, which instantly inflates driver’s and pas- senger’s SRS frontal airbags. After the deployment, the SRS airbags immediately start to deflate so that the driver’s vision is not obstructed. The time required from detecting impact to the deflation of the SRS air- bag after deployment is shorter than the blink of an eye. The front passenger’s SRS frontal airbag deploys to- gether with driver’s SRS frontal airbag even when no one occupies the front passenger’s seat. When the SRS frontal airbags deploy, the driver’s and front passenger’s seatbelt pretensioners operate at the same time. Although it is highly unlikely that the SRS airbag would activate in a non-accident situation, should it occur, the SRS airbag will deflate quickly, not obscuring vi- sion and will not interfere with the driver’s ability to

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maintain control of the vehicle. When the SRS airbag deploys, a sudden, fairly loud inflation noise will be heard and some smoke will be released. These occurrences are normal result of the deployment. This smoke does not indicate a fire in the vehicle.

Do not touch the SRS airbag system compo- nents around the steering wheel and dash- board with bare hands right after deployment. Doing so can cause burns because the compo- nents can be very hot as a result of deployment.

The SRS frontal airbag is designed to deploy in the event of an accident involving a moderate to severe frontal collision. It is basically not designed to deploy in lesser frontal impacts because the necessary pro- tection can be achieved by the seatbelt alone. Also, it is basically not designed to deploy in side or rear im- pacts or in roll-over accidents because deployment of the SRS frontal airbag would not help the occupant in those situations. The SRS airbag is designed to func- tion on a one-time-only basis. SRS airbag deployment depends on the level of force

experienced in the passenger compartment during a collision. That level differs from one type of collision to another, and it may have no bearing on the visible damage done to the vehicle itself. (cid:86) Examples of accident in which the SRS frontal

airbag will most likely deploy.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:86) Examples of the types of accidents in which it is possible that the SRS frontal airbag will de- ploy.

UB1055BA

A head-on collision against a thick concrete wall at a vehicle speed of 12 to 19 mph (20 to 30 km/h) or high- er activates the SRS frontal airbag. The SRS frontal airbag will also be activated when the vehicle is ex- posed to a frontal impact similar in fashion and magni- tude to the above-mentioned collision.

UB1164BA

The SRS frontal airbag may be activated when the ve- hicle sustains a hard impact in the undercarriage area – CONTINUED – 1-67

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

from the road surface (such as when the vehicle plunges into a deep ditch, is severely bumped or knocked hard against an obstacle on the road such as a curb).

(cid:86) Examples of the types of accidents in which the

SRS frontal airbag is unlikely to deploy.

There are many types of collisions which might not necessarily require SRS frontal airbag deployment. If the vehicle strikes an object, such as a telephone pole

UB1165BA

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or sign pole, or if it slides under a truck’s load bed, or if it sustains an oblique offset frontal impact, the SRS frontal airbag may not deploy depending on the level of accident forces involved.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:86) Examples of the types of accidents in which the

SRS frontal airbag will basically not deploy.

UB1166BA

The SRS frontal airbag is basically not designed to de- ploy if the vehicle is struck from side or from behind, or if it rolls onto its side or roof, or if it is involved in a low- – CONTINUED – 1-69

(cid:132) SRS side airbag (if equipped) The SRS side airbag is stored in the door side of each front seatback, which bears an “SRS AIRBAG” label. In a moderate to severe side impact collision, the SRS side airbag on the impacted side of the vehicle de- ploys between the occupant and the door panel and supplements the seatbelt by reducing the impact on the occupant’s chest.

The SRS side airbag is designed as only a sup- plement to the primary protection provided by the seatbelt. It does not do away with the need to fasten seatbelts. It is also important to wear your seatbelt to help avoid injuries that can re- sult when an occupant is not seated in a proper upright position.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

speed frontal collision.

UB1070BB

1) First impact! 2) Second impact!! In an accident where the vehicle is impacted more than once, the SRS frontal airbag deploys only once. Example: In the case of a double collision, first with an- other vehicle, then against a concrete wall in immedi- ate succession, once the SRS frontal airbag is activat- ed on the first impact, it will not be activated on the second.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1092BA

HS1093BA

Do not sit or lean unnecessarily close to either front door. The SRS side airbag is stored in both front seat seatbacks next to the door, and it provides protection by deploying rapidly (faster than the blink of an eye) in the event of a side impact collision. However, the force of SRS side airbag deployment may cause injuries if your head or other body parts are too close to the SRS side airbag.

Do not rest your arm on either front door or its internal trim. It could be injured in the event of SRS side airbag deployment.

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Never allow a child to kneel on the front pas- senger’s seat facing the side window or to wrap his/her arms around the front seat seatback. In the event of an accident, the force of SRS side airbag deployment could seriously injure or even kill the child because his/her head or arms or other body parts are close to the side airbag. Since your vehicle is also equipped with a pas- senger’s SRS frontal airbag, children aged 12
and under should be placed in the rear seat anyway and should be properly restrained at all times.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1094BA

HS1095BA

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

HS1096BA

UG1534BA

Do not attach accessories to the door trim or near either SRS side airbags and do not place objects near the SRS side airbags. In the event of the SRS side airbag deployment, they could be propelled dangerously toward the vehicle’s occupants and cause injuries.

Do not put any kind of cover or clothes or other objects over either front seatback and do not attach labels or stickers to the front seat sur- face on or near the SRS side airbag. They could prevent proper deployment of the SRS side air- bag, reducing protection available to the front seat’s occupant.

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Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags

(cid:84) Operation

UB0359

A) SRS side airbag deploys as soon as a collision oc-

B) After deployment, SRS side airbag starts to deflate im-

curs.

mediately.

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The SRS side airbag can function only when the igni- tion switch is in the “ON” position. The driver’s and front passenger’s SRS side airbags deploy independently of each other since each has its own impact sensor. Also, the SRS side airbag deploys independently of the frontal airbags in the steering wheel and instrument panel. An impact sensor is incorporated into each of the ve- hicle’s center pillars. If either sensor detects a certain predetermined amount of force during a side impact collision, the control module sends a signal to the side airbag module on the impacted side of the vehicle, in- structing it to inflate the SRS side airbag. Then the side airbag module produces gas, which instantly in- flates the SRS side airbag. After the deployment, the SRS side airbag immediately starts to deflate. The time required from detecting impact to the deflation of the SRS side airbag after deployment is shorter than the blink of an eye. The SRS side airbag deploys even when no one occu- pies the seat on the side of which an impact is applied. When the SRS side airbag deploys, a sudden, fairly loud inflation noise will be heard and some smoke will be released. These occurrences are normal result of the deployment. This smoke does not indicate a fire in

the vehicle.

(cid:86) Example of the type of accident in which the

SRS side airbag will most likely deploy.

Seat, seatbelt and SRS airbags