1994 Honda Accord Owner's Manual - Page 213

Supplemental Restraint System The SRS includes the steering wheel airbag assembly, sensors in the dashboard, and a control unit with sensors behind the center console. The system also has a dashboardmounted airbag assembly for the passenger. The sensors are decelerometers, set to trigger in a severe frontal impact that generates more force than a 25 mile per hour crash into a parked vehicle of similar size. For the SRS to activate, at least two sensors must trigger. This duplication is to prevent accidental activation. When the control unit receives trigger signals from at least two sensors, it sends voltage to the airbag. The control unit stores this charge in capacitors to insure reliability even if a severe impact damages the car's battery or electrical connections. The electrical charge sent to the airbag assembly ignites its propellant, which burns instantaneously. The gas produced by the burning propellant inflates the airbag instantly. The airbag is vented so it stays inflated for only an instant and does not block the driver's vision. Smoke from the burned propellant comes out of the airbag and into the car's interior. This is normal and does not mean there is a fire. The airbag collapses onto the driver's lap. The airbag unit can inflate only one time. After use, your Honda dealer must check the complete Supplemental Restraint System and replace the airbag assembly. To ensure long-term reliability, the SRS uses gold-plated electrical connections throughout. Exposed components are sealed with epoxy. The control unit monitors the SRS circuitry whenever the ignition is ON (II). If the control unit senses any faults, it turns on the SRS indicator light on the instrument panel. Take the car to your Honda dealer to diagnose and repair the system as soon as possible. The SRS needs no regular maintenance other than an inspection by your Honda dealer ten years after manufacture. Technical Information