Q: What Are the Safety Precautions for Working with an Air Bag SRS on Honda Prelude?
A: The Air Bag, also known as a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) component, is designed to supplement seat belts and should never replace them. An SRS consists of an airbag, sensors, a control unit, and an indicator light. The sensors detect moderate to severe frontal collisions and activate the airbag via the control unit, which also has backup power. Upon ignition, the indicator light comes on for 6 seconds, indicating system health. Continuous light signifies system issues. Safety precautions are essential when working with the SRS: handle live airbag modules carefully, use specific multimeters, avoid damaging or altering SRS components, and always disconnect the battery. When disarming the SRS, both the driver's and passenger's air bags need disconnection. For the driver's side, note the sound system security code, disconnect the Battery Cables, access the airbag electrical connector, and follow specific instructions for certain models. For the passenger's side, remove the glove box, locate the air bag connector, and proceed based on the type of electrical connector. To arm the SRS, ensure all components are properly installed. Connect the air bag connectors, reinstall access panels, reconnect the battery, enter the sound system security code, and verify the SRS indicator's behavior. If the SRS light indicates a problem, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) can be read using specific tools. To reset the SRS indicator, locate the yellow Memory Erase Signal (MES) connector, identify the wire colors, and follow a specific sequence using the Service Connector Tool to clear the DTCs. If successful, the SRS light will blink twice. If the light remains on, diagnose using the DTCs. Ensure all components are properly installed and connected, and return the MES connector to its holder after clearing the codes.