1997 Ford Taurus Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 65

Seating and safety restraints • and the electrical wiring which connects the components. The diagnostic module monitors its own internal circuits and the supplemental air bag electrical system readiness (including the impact sensors), the system wiring, the air bag system readiness light, the air bag back up power and the air bag ignitors. 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 Air bag readiness section in the Instrumentation chapter. Routine maintenance of the air bag is not required. A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following: • The readiness light will either flash or stay lit. • The readiness light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is turned on. • A group of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat periodically until the problem and light are repaired. If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the SRS serviced at your dealership or by a qualified technician immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision. DISPOSAL OF AIR BAGS AND AIR BAG EQUIPPED VEHICLES For disposal of air bags or air bag equipped vehicles, see your local dealership or qualified technician. Air bags MUST BE disposed of by qualified personnel. 66