Restraint System - Airbag Codes

SOURCE: Kia Technician Times

TITLE: Airbag Codes

APPLIES TO: 98 Sportage

SERVICE TIP:

CONDITION






The 1998 Sportage airbag system will flash Diagnostic Trouble Codes whenever a code is stored in the Airbag Diagnostic Unit (ADU). The light will flash codes as long as the ignition key is ON (whether the engine is running or not) and the code is stored in the ADU.

CAUSE

A passenger airbag has been added to the 1998 Sportage. When retrieving ADU codes in a 1998 Sportage, a scan tool equipped with a 1997 program card will identify passenger airbag codes as knee airbag codes (since the 1997 Sportage doesn't have a passenger airbag). Actual knee airbag codes on the 1998 Sportage will not be displayed when using a scan tool equipped with a 1997 program card.

CORRECTIVE ACTION

WARNING
IMPROPER HANDLING OF THE ADU COULD RESULT IN UNPLANNED AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT, WHICH CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY. READ ALL SERVICE WARNINGS BEFORE BEGINNING WORK.

All airbag DTCs must be cleared with the scan tool. A 1997 program card can be used in the scan tool to retrieve some 1998 codes. The scan tool will communicate with the 1998 Sportage by identifying it as a 1997 Sportage and will then display trouble codes and perform the clear function. However, a 1998 program card must be used in the scan tool to read all 1998 Sportage knee airbag codes correctly.

AIRBAG SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS:
1. Turn the ignition switch to ON.
2. The airbag warning light should illuminate. If it does not, refer to Airbag Diagnosis.
3. The airbag warning light should go out after about five seconds. If the light stays out, the system is okay.
4. If the airbag warning light flashes, there is a problem in the airbag - supplemental restraint system (SRS).
5. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK.
6. Locate the data link connector (DLC) at the left side of the engine compartment and connect the scan tool.
7. Turn the ignition switch to ON and record any airbag DTCs displayed on the scan tool.
8. Refer to the DTC chart for fault descriptions and corrective actions.