Crutchfield SRS Airbag Fact Sheet

SRS stands for Supplemental Restraint System, but may also be identified as "SIR" or simply "Airbag."

In certain vehicles, certain steps you may choose to take when installing car audio, video, or performance gear can deactivate your vehicle's SRS system. If any or a portion of your SRS system has been disabled and you get into an accident, you will not be protected by the system, which may lead to increased risk of serious personal injury and/or death.

Following a few simple rules, can help you avoid deactivating your vehicle's SRS system:

1. Before attempting your installation, please refer to your vehicle's Owner's Manual and/or call your dealer to determine if the steps called for in the installation of your gear may disable or trigger the SRS system in your vehicle.

  • Note: Since 1989, airbags have been mandatory in passenger vehicles in the U.S. However, some vehicles manufactured before that time offered airbags as an option. Please check your vehicle's Owner's Manual and/or call your dealer if you're unsure whether your vehicle has airbags.

2. The first step of any car audio/video installation is to disconnect the negative post of your vehicle's battery.

  • Airbags can still deploy after the vehicle's battery has been disconnected, take the same precautions that you would take if the negative post was not disconnected.

3. DO NOT disconnect any airbag harnesses in the vehicle, as it could disable the airbag system and cause serious personal injury and/or death. These harnesses are typically wrapped in a bright yellow conduit or tape.

  • Note: Airbags and their wiring can be found in many locations in modern vehicles. Possible airbag locations include, but are not limited to:

      i. Dash
      ii. Doors
      iii. Seats
      iv. Pillars
      v. Roofline

4. If, during the course of your installation, the airbag light is triggered, the system must be reset by a qualified technician. Immediately contact your local dealer for details prior to driving the vehicle. Most dealers charge one hour of labor for this service.

5. If you removed the seats, seatbelts, or headrests, make sure they are secured to manufacturer's specifications when installation is complete.

6. If you have any questions whatsoever about an installation and your SRS system, do not hesitate to call our technical service department. The phone number to the technical service department can be found on your Crutchfield Invoice.



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