electrical circuit JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 2002 WJ / 2.G Workshop Manual

event will be automatically cancelled and the window
movement will be stopped if the DDM circuitry
detects a second input from the driver side front door
power window switch, in either direction.
Each power window switch, except the lockout
switch, is illuminated by a Light-Emitting Diode
(LED) when the ignition switch is turned to the On
position. However, when the lockout switch is placed
in the Lock position, the LED for the locked-out front
and rear passenger door power window switches is
turned off.
See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for
more information on the features, use and operation
of the power window switches.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - POWER WINDOW
SWITCH
The diagnosis found here applies only to the rear
door power window switches. If the problem being
diagnosed is an inoperative power window switch
illumination lamp, but the power window switch
operates as designed, replace the faulty rear door
power window switch(verify the power lockout
switch is not actuated). For complete circuit dia-
grams, refer to the appropriate wiring information.
The wiring information includes wiring diagrams,
proper wire and connector repair procedures, details
of wire harness routing and retention, connector pin-
out information and location views for the various
wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the power window switch from the
rear door trim panel. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
POWER WINDOWS/POWER WINDOW SWITCH -
REMOVAL).
(3) Check the rear door power window switch con-
tinuity as shown in the Rear Door Power Window
Switch Continuity chart (Fig. 1). If OK, (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/POWER WINDOWS/WINDOW
MOTOR - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). If not OK,
replace the faulty rear door power window switch.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the trim panel from the rear door.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/DOORS - REAR/TRIM PANEL -
REMOVAL) for the procedures.
(3) Using a trim stick or another suitable wide
flat-bladed tool, gently pry the sides of the switch
receptacle on the back of the rear door trim panel
away from the perimeter of the power window switch
to release the switch from the receptacle (Fig. 2).
(4) Remove the power window switch from the
rear door trim panel switch receptacle.
Fig. 1 Rear Door Power Window Switch Continuity
SWITCH POSITION CONTINUITY BETWEEN
LED 3 AND 6
OFF 1 AND 2
OFF 4 AND 5
FORWARD 1 AND 2
FORWARD 5 AND 6
REARWARD 2 AND 6
REARWARD 4 AND 5
Fig. 2 Rear Door Power Window Switch Remove/
Install
1 - REAR DOOR TRIM PANEL
2 - TRIM PANEL RECEPTACLE
3 - POWER WINDOW SWITCH
WJPOWER WINDOWS 8N - 37
POWER WINDOW SWITCH (Continued)

INSTALLATION
(1) Position the power window switch to the rear
door trim panel switch receptacle.
(2) Press firmly and evenly on the back of the
power window switch until it snaps into rear door
trim panel switch receptacle.
(3) Install the trim panel onto the rear door. (Refer
to 23 - BODY/DOORS - REAR/TRIM PANEL -
INSTALLATION) for the procedures.
(4) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
WINDOW MOTOR
DESCRIPTION
Power operated front and rear door windows are
standard equipment on this model. Each door has a
permanent magnet reversible electric motor with an
integral right angle gearbox mechanism that oper-
ates the window regulator. In addition, each power
window motor is equipped with an integral self-reset-
ting circuit breaker to protect the motor from over-
loads.
The power window motor gearbox housing is
secured to the window regulator drum housing with
screws. The window regulators used in all four doors
are single vertical post cable-and-drum type. A
molded plastic slider guided by the post is driven by
the regulator cables. The slider raises and lowers the
window glass through a steel lift plate attachment.
Front and rear glass channels within each door guide
and stabilize each end of the glass.
The power window motor and gearbox assembly
cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, the
entire power window motor and gearbox unit must be
replaced. The window regulators are available for
service. (Refer to 23 - BODY/DOOR - FRONT/WIN-
DOW REGULATOR - REMOVAL) or (Refer to 23 -
BODY/DOORS - REAR/WINDOW REGULATOR -
REMOVAL) for the regulator service procedures.
OPERATION
A positive and negative battery connection to the
two motor terminals will cause the power window
motor to rotate in one direction. Reversing the cur-
rent through these same two connections will cause
the motor to rotate in the opposite direction.
When the power window motor operates, it rotates
the regulator cable drum through its gearbox. The
window regulator cable drum is connected through
two cables to the plastic slider on the vertical post.
As the cable drum rotates, it lets cable out on one
side of the drum, and takes cable in on the other side
of the drum. The changes in cable length move the
slider up or down the vertical post, raising or lower-
ing the window glass.If the window regulator or window glass bind,
encounter obstructions, or reach their travel limits it
overloads the power window motor. The overloading
condition causes the power window motor self-reset-
ting circuit breaker to open, which stops the motor
from running.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WINDOW MOTOR
Before you proceed with this diagnosis, confirm
proper switch operation. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/DRIVER
DOOR MODULE - OPERATION) or (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/POWER WINDOWS/POWER WIN-
DOW SWITCH - OPERATION). For complete circuit
diagrams, refer to the appropriate wiring informa-
tion. The wiring information includes wiring dia-
grams, proper wire and connector repair procedures,
details of wire harness routing and retention, connec-
tor pin-out information and location views for the
various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.
(1) Remove the trim panel from the door with the
inoperative power window. (Refer to 23 - BODY/
DOOR - FRONT/TRIM PANEL - REMOVAL) or
(Refer to 23 - BODY/DOORS - REAR/TRIM PANEL -
REMOVAL) for the procedures.
(2) Disconnect the door wire harness connector
from the power window motor wire harness connec-
tor. Apply battery current to one cavity of the power
window motor wire harness connector, and apply
ground to the other cavity of the connector. The
power window motor should operate in one direction.
Remember, if the window is in the full up or full
down position, the motor will not operate in that
direction by design. If OK, go to Step 3. If not OK,
replace the faulty power window motor.
(3) Reverse the battery and ground connections to
the two cavities of the power window motor wire har-
ness connector. The power window motor should now
operate in the other direction. Remember, if the win-
dow is in the full up or full down position, the motor
will not operate in that direction by design. If OK, go
to Step 4. If not OK, replace the faulty power window
motor.
(4) If the power window motor operates in both
directions, check the operation of the window glass
and regulator mechanism through its complete up
and down travel. There should be no binding or stick-
ing of the window glass or regulator mechanism
through the entire travel range. If not OK, (Refer to
23 - BODY/DOOR - FRONT/WINDOW REGULATOR
- REMOVAL) or (Refer to 23 - BODY/DOORS -
REAR/WINDOW REGULATOR - REMOVAL) to
check for proper installation or damage of the win-
dow glass mounting and operating hardware.
8N - 38 POWER WINDOWSWJ
POWER WINDOW SWITCH (Continued)

²Passenger Airbag- The passenger airbag is
located on the instrument panel, beneath the instru-
ment panel top pad and above the glove box on the
passenger side of the vehicle.
²Passenger Knee Blocker- The passenger knee
blocker is a structural reinforcement that is integral
to and concealed within the glove box door.
²Side Impact Sensor- Two side impact sensors
are used on vehicles with the optional side curtain
airbags, one left side and one right side. One sensor
is located behind the B-pillar trim near the base of
each B-pillar.
²Side Curtain Airbag- In vehicles equipped
with this option, a side curtain airbag is located on
each inside roof side rail above the headliner, and
extends from the A-pillar to just beyond the C-pillar.
The ACM and the EMIC each contain a central
processing unit and programming that allow them to
communicate with each other using the Programma-
ble Communication Interface (PCI) data bus network.
This method of communication is used by the ACM
for control of the airbag indicator on all models
equipped with dual front airbags. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/
COMMUNICATION - DESCRIPTION).
Hard wired circuitry connects the supplemental
restraint system components to each other through
the electrical system of the vehicle. These hard wired
circuits are integral to several wire harnesses, which
are routed throughout the vehicle and retained by
many different methods. These circuits may be con-
nected to each other, to the vehicle electrical system,
and to the supplemental restraint system compo-
nents through the use of a combination of soldered
splices, splice block connectors, and many different
types of wire harness terminal connectors and insu-
lators. Refer to the appropriate wiring information.
The wiring information includes wiring diagrams,
proper wire and connector repair procedures, further
details on wire harness routing and retention, as well
as pin-out and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
OPERATION
ACTIVE RESTRAINTS
The primary passenger restraints in this or any
other vehicle are the standard equipment factory-in-
stalled seat belts. Seat belts are referred to as an
active restraint because the vehicle occupants are
required to physically fasten and properly adjust
these restraints in order to benefit from them. See
the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for more
information on the features, use and operation of all
of the factory-installed active restraints.PASSIVE RESTRAINTS
The passive restraints system is referred to as a
supplemental restraint system because they were
designed and are intended to enhance the protection
for the vehicle occupants of the vehicleonlywhen
used in conjunction with the seat belts. They are
referred to as passive systems because the vehicle
occupants are not required to do anything to make
them operate; however, the vehicle occupants must
be wearing their seat belts in order to obtain the
maximum safety benefit from the factory-installed
supplemental restraint systems.
The supplemental restraint system electrical cir-
cuits are continuously monitored and controlled by a
microprocessor and software contained within the
Airbag Control Module (ACM). An airbag indicator in
the ElectroMechanical Instrument Cluster (EMIC)
illuminates for about seven seconds as a bulb test
each time the ignition switch is turned to the On or
Start positions. Following the bulb test, the airbag
indicator is turned on or off by the ACM to indicate
the status of the supplemental restraint system. If
the airbag indicator comes on at any time other than
during the bulb test, it indicates that there is a prob-
lem in the supplemental restraint system electrical
circuits. Such a problem may cause airbags not to
deploy when required, or to deploy when not
required.
Deployment of the supplemental restraints
depends upon the angle and severity of an impact.
Deployment is not based upon vehicle speed; rather,
deployment is based upon the rate of deceleration as
measured by the forces of gravity (G force) upon the
impact sensors. When an impact is severe enough,
the microprocessor in the ACM signals the inflator
unit of the airbag module to deploy the airbag. Dur-
ing a frontal vehicle impact, the knee blockers work
in concert with properly fastened and adjusted seat
belts to restrain both the driver and the front seat
passenger in the proper position for an airbag deploy-
ment. The knee blockers also absorb and distribute
the crash energy from the driver and the front seat
passenger to the structure of the instrument panel.
Typically, the vehicle occupants recall more about
the events preceding and following a collision than
they have of an airbag deployment itself. This is
because the airbag deployment and deflation occur so
rapidly. In a typical 48 kilometer-per-hour (30 mile-
per-hour) barrier impact, from the moment of impact
until the airbags are fully inflated takes about 40
milliseconds. Within one to two seconds from the
moment of impact, the airbags are almost entirely
deflated. The times cited for these events are approx-
imations, which apply only to a barrier impact at the
given speed. Actual times will vary somewhat,
8O - 4 RESTRAINTSWJ
RESTRAINTS (Continued)

(4) Check to be certain that nobody is in the vehi-
cle, then reconnect the battery negative cable.
(5) Using the DRBIIIt, read and record the active
(current) Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) data.
(6) Next, use the DRBIIItto read and record any
stored (historical) DTC data.
(7) If any DTC is found in Step 5 or Step 6, refer
to the appropriate diagnostic information.
(8) Use the DRBIIItto erase the stored DTC data.
If any problems remain, the stored DTC data will not
erase. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic informa-
tion to diagnose any stored DTC that will not erase.
If the stored DTC information is successfully erased,
go to Step 9.
(9) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position for
about fifteen seconds, and then back to the On posi-
tion. Observe the airbag indicator in the instrument
cluster. It should light for six to eight seconds, and
then go out. This indicates that the supplemental
restraint system is functioning normally and that the
repairs are complete. If the airbag indicator fails to
light, or lights and stays on, there is still an active
supplemental restraint system fault or malfunction.
Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information to
diagnose the problem.
AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The Airbag Control Module (ACM) is also some-
times referred to as the Occupant Restraint Control-
ler (ORC) (Fig. 6). The ACM is concealed underneath
the center floor console, where it is secured by four
screws to a stamped steel mounting bracket welded
onto the top of the floor panel transmission tunnel
just forward of the park brake mechanism in the pas-
senger compartment of the vehicle.
Concealed within a hollow in the center of the die
cast aluminum ACM housing is the electronic cir-
cuitry of the ACM which includes a microprocessor,
an electronic impact sensor, an electronic safing sen-
sor, and an energy storage capacitor. A stamped
metal cover plate is secured to the bottom of the
ACM housing with four screws to enclose and protect
the internal electronic circuitry and components. A
printed label on the top of the ACM housing provides
a visual verification of the proper orientation of the
unit, and should always be pointed toward the front
of the vehicle.
Two molded plastic electrical connector receptacles
exit the forward side of the ACM housing. These two
receptacles connect the ACM to the vehicle electrical
system through a dedicated take out and connector of
the instrument panel wire harness, and a dedicated
take out and connector of the airbag overlay wire
harness. For vehicles equipped with the optional side
curtain airbags, both ACM connector receptacles are
black in color and the ACM contains a second bi-di-
rectional safing sensor for the side airbags. For vehi-
cles not equipped with the optional side curtain
airbags, the ACM connector receptacles are both
gray.
The impact sensor and safing sensor internal to
the ACM are calibrated for the specific vehicle, and
are only serviced as a unit with the ACM. The ACM
cannot be repaired or adjusted and, if damaged or
faulty, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The microprocessor in the Airbag Control Module
(ACM) contains the supplemental restraint system
logic circuits and controls all of the supplemental
restraint system components. The ACM uses
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) and can communicate
with other electronic modules in the vehicle as well
as with the DRBIIItscan tool using the Programma-
ble Communications Interface (PCI) data bus net-
work. This method of communication is used for
control of the airbag indicator in the ElectroMechani-
cal Instrument Cluster (EMIC) and for supplemental
restraint system diagnosis and testing through the
16-way data link connector located on the driver side
lower edge of the instrument panel. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MOD-
ULES/COMMUNICATION - OPERATION).
Fig. 6 Airbag Control Module
1 - AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE
2 - ORIENTATION ARROW
3 - LABEL
4 - MOUNTING HOLES (4)
5 - CONNECTOR RECEPTACLE (2)
WJRESTRAINTS 8O - 9
RESTRAINTS (Continued)

The ACM microprocessor continuously monitors all
of the supplemental restraint system electrical cir-
cuits to determine the system readiness. If the ACM
detects a monitored system fault, it sets an active
and stored Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and sends
electronic messages to the EMIC over the PCI data
bus to turn on the airbag indicator. An active fault
only remains for the duration of the fault or in some
cases the duration of the current ignition switch
cycle, while a stored fault causes a DTC to be stored
in memory by the ACM. For some DTCs, if a fault
does not recur for a number of ignition cycles, the
ACM will automatically erase the stored DTC. For
other internal faults, the stored DTC is latched for-
ever.
The ACM receives battery current through two cir-
cuits, on a fused ignition switch output (run) circuit
through a fuse in the Junction Block (JB), and on a
fused ignition switch output (start-run) circuit
through a second fuse in the JB. The ACM is
grounded through a ground circuit and take out of
the instrument panel floor wire harness. This take
out has a single eyelet terminal connector secured by
a nut to a ground stud located behind the ACM
mount on the floor panel transmission tunnel. These
connections allow the ACM to be operational when-
ever the ignition switch is in the Start or On posi-
tions. The ACM also contains an energy-storage
capacitor. When the ignition switch is in the Start or
On positions, this capacitor is continually being
charged with enough electrical energy to deploy the
airbags for up to one second following a battery dis-
connect or failure. The purpose of the capacitor is to
provide backup supplemental restraint system pro-
tection in case there is a loss of battery current sup-
ply to the ACM during an impact.
Two sensors are contained within the ACM, an
electronic impact sensor and a safing sensor. The
ACM also monitors inputs from two remote front
impact sensors located on brackets on the inboard
sides of the right and left vertical members of the
radiator support near the front of the vehicle. The
electronic impact sensors are accelerometers that
sense the rate of vehicle deceleration, which provide
verification of the direction and severity of an
impact. On models equipped with optional side cur-
tain airbags, the ACM also monitors inputs from two
remote side impact sensors located near the base of
both the left and right inner B-pillars to control the
deployment of the side curtain airbag units.
The safing sensor is an electronic accelerometer
sensor within the ACM that provides an additional
logic input to the ACM microprocessor. The safingsensor is used to verify the need for an airbag
deployment by detecting impact energy of a lesser
magnitude than that of the primary electronic impact
sensors, and must exceed a safing threshold in order
for the airbags to deploy. The ACM also monitors a
Hall effect-type seat belt switch located in the buckle
of each front seat belt to determine whether the seat-
belts are buckled, and provides an input to the EMIC
over the PCI data bus to control the seatbelt indica-
tor operation based upon the status of the driver side
front seat belt switch. Vehicles with the optional side
curtain airbags feature a second safing sensor within
the ACM to provide confirmation to the ACM of side
impact forces. This second safing sensor is a bi-direc-
tional unit that detects impact forces from either side
of the vehicle.
Pre-programmed decision algorithms in the ACM
microprocessor determine when the deceleration rate
as signaled by the impact sensors and the safing sen-
sors indicate an impact that is severe enough to
require supplemental restraint system protection.
The ACM also determines the level of front airbag
deployment force required for each front seating posi-
tion based upon the status of the two seat belt switch
inputs and the severity of the monitored impact.
When the programmed conditions are met, the ACM
sends the proper electrical signals to deploy the mul-
tistage dual front airbags at the programmed force
levels, and to deploy either side curtain airbag.
The hard wired inputs and outputs for the ACM
may be diagnosed and tested using conventional
diagnostic tools and procedures. However, conven-
tional diagnostic methods will not prove conclusive in
the diagnosis of the ACM, the PCI data bus network,
or the electronic message inputs to and outputs from
the ACM. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate
means to diagnose the ACM, the PCI data bus net-
work, and the electronic message inputs to and out-
puts from the ACM requires the use of a DRBIIIt
scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation.
REMOVAL
Two different Airbag Control Modules (ACM) are
available for this vehicle. For vehicles equipped with
the optional side curtain airbags, both ACM connec-
tor receptacles are black in color and the ACM con-
tains a second bi-directional safing sensor for the
side airbags. For vehicles not equipped with the
optional side curtain airbags, the ACM connector
receptacles are gray.
8O - 10 RESTRAINTSWJ
AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE (Continued)

OPERATION
The clockspring is a mechanical electrical circuit
component that is used to provide continuous electri-
cal continuity between the fixed instrument panel
wire harness and the electrical components mounted
on or in the rotating steering wheel. On this model
the rotating electrical components include the driver
airbag, the horn switch, the speed control switches,
and the remote radio switches, if the vehicle is so
equipped. The clockspring case is positioned and
secured to the multi-function switch mounting hous-
ing on the upper steering column housing by two
screws. The two connector receptacles on the tail of
the fixed clockspring case connect the clockspring to
the vehicle electrical system through two take outs
with connectors from the instrument panel wire har-
ness. The clockspring rotor is movable and is keyed
to the hub of the steering wheel by two large flats
that are molded into the rotor hub. The three pins
(two round and one oblong) on the lower surface of
the clockspring rotor hub engage and index the clock-
spring rotor to the turn signal cancel cam. The turn
signal cancel cam is integral to the multi-function
switch mounting housing and is keyed to the upper
steering column shaft. Two short, yellow-sleeved pig-
tail wires on the upper surface of the clockspring
rotor connect the clockspring to the driver airbag,
while a steering wheel wire harness connects the two
connector receptacles on the upper surface of the
clockspring rotor to the horn switch, the two speed
control switches, and the remote radio switches on
vehicles that are so equipped.
Like the clockspring in a timepiece, the clockspring
tape has travel limits and can be damaged by being
wound too tightly during full stop-to-stop steering
wheel rotation. To prevent this from occurring, the
clockspring must be centered when it is installed on
the steering column. Centering the clockspring
indexes the clockspring tape to the movable steering
components so that the tape can operate within its
designed travel limits. However, if the clockspring is
removed from the steering column or if the steering
shaft is disconnected from the steering gear, the
clockspring spool can change position relative to the
movable steering components and must be re-cen-
tered following completion of the service or the tape
may be damaged. Service replacement clocksprings
are shipped pre-centered and with a locking pin
installed. This locking pin should not be removed
until the clockspring has been installed on the steer-
ing column. If the locking pin is removed before the
clockspring is installed on a steering column, the
clockspring centering procedure must be performed.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCK-
SPRING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCK-
SPRING CENTERING).
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CLOCKSPRING
CENTERING
The clockspring is designed to wind and unwind
when the steering wheel is rotated, but is only
designed to rotate the same number of turns (about
five complete rotations) as the steering wheel can be
turned from stop to stop. Centering the clockspring
indexes the clockspring tape to other steering compo-
nents so that it can operate within its designed
travel limits. The rotor of a centered clockspring can
be rotated two and one-half turns in either direction
from the centered position, without damaging the
clockspring tape.
However, if the clockspring is removed for service
or if the steering column is disconnected from the
steering gear, the clockspring tape can change posi-
tion relative to the other steering components. The
clockspring must then be re-centered following com-
pletion of such service or the clockspring tape may be
damaged. Service replacement clocksprings are
shipped pre-centered and with a molded plastic lock-
ing pin installed. This locking pin should not be
removed until the clockspring has been installed on
the steering column. If the locking pin is removed
before the clockspring is installed on a steering col-
umn, the clockspring centering procedure must be
performed.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, FRONT IMPACT SENSOR,
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BAT-
TERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT
TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO
DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
NOTE: Before starting this procedure, be certain to
turn the steering wheel until the front wheels are in
the straight-ahead position.
(1) Place the front wheels in the straight-ahead
position.
(2) Remove the clockspring from the steering col-
umn. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
CLOCKSPRING - REMOVAL).
WJRESTRAINTS 8O - 15
CLOCKSPRING (Continued)

OPERATION
The multistage driver airbag is deployed by electri-
cal signals generated by the Airbag Control Module
(ACM) through the driver airbag squib 1 and squib 2
circuits to the two initiators in the airbag inflator. By
using two initiators, the airbag can be deployed at
multiple levels of force. The force level is controlled
by the ACM to suit the monitored impact conditions
by providing one of four delay intervals between the
electrical signals provided to the two initiators. The
longer the delay between these signals, the less force-
fully the airbag will deploy. When the ACM sends the
proper electrical signals to each initiator, the electri-
cal energy generates enough heat to initiate a small
pyrotechnic charge which, in turn ignites chemical
pellets within the inflator. Once ignited, these chem-
ical pellets burn rapidly and produce a large quantity
of nitrogen gas. The inflator is sealed to the back of
the airbag housing and a diffuser in the inflator
directs all of the nitrogen gas into the airbag cush-
ion, causing the cushion to inflate. As the cushion
inflates, the driver airbag trim cover will split at pre-
determined breakout lines, then fold back out of the
way along with the horn switch and tray unit. Fol-
lowing an airbag deployment, the airbag cushion
quickly deflates by venting the nitrogen gas towards
the instrument panel through vent holes within the
fabric used to construct the back (steering wheel
side) panel of the airbag cushion.
Some of the chemicals used to create the nitrogen
gas may be considered hazardous while in their solid
state before they are burned, but they are securely
sealed within the airbag inflator. Typically, both ini-
tiators are used and all potentially hazardous chem-
icals are burned during an airbag deployment event.
However, it is possible for only one initiator to be
used during a deployment due to an airbag system
fault; therefore, it is necessary to always confirm
that both initiators have been used in order to avoid
the improper disposal of potentially live pyrotechnic
or hazardous materials. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE - SER-
VICE AFTER A SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
DEPLOYMENT). The nitrogen gas that is produced
when the chemicals are burned is harmless. How-
ever, a small amount of residue from the burned
chemicals may cause some temporary discomfort if it
contacts the skin, eyes, or breathing passages. If skin
or eye irritation is noted, rinse the affected area with
plenty of cool, clean water. If breathing passages are
irritated, move to another area where there is plenty
of clean, fresh air to breath. If the irritation is not
alleviated by these actions, contact a physician.
REMOVAL
The following procedure is for replacement of a
faulty or damaged driver airbag. If the airbag is
faulty or damaged, but not deployed, review the rec-
ommended procedures for handling non-deployed
supplemental restraints. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE - HAN-
DLING NON-DEPLOYED SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINTS). If the driver airbag has been
deployed, review the recommended procedures for
service after a supplemental restraint deployment
before removing the airbag from the vehicle. (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE - SERVICE AFTER A SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT DEPLOYMENT).
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, FRONT IMPACT SENSOR,
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BAT-
TERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT
TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO
DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: WHEN REMOVING A DEPLOYED AIR-
BAG, RUBBER GLOVES, EYE PROTECTION, AND A
LONG-SLEEVED SHIRT SHOULD BE WORN. THERE
MAY BE DEPOSITS ON THE AIRBAG CUSHION AND
OTHER INTERIOR SURFACES. IN LARGE DOSES,
THESE DEPOSITS MAY CAUSE IRRITATION TO THE
SKIN AND EYES.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to
discharge before further service.
(2) From the underside of the steering wheel,
remove the two screws that secure the driver airbag
to the steering wheel armature (Fig. 19).
(3) Pull the driver airbag away from the steering
wheel far enough to access the three electrical con-
nections on the back of the airbag housing.
(4) Disconnect the steering wheel wire harness
connector for the horn switch from the horn switch
feed pigtail wire connector, which is located on the
back of the driver airbag housing.
WJRESTRAINTS 8O - 19
DRIVER AIRBAG (Continued)

CAUTION: Do not pull on the clockspring pigtail
wires or pry on the connector insulator to disen-
gage the connector from the driver airbag inflator
connector receptacle. Improper removal of these
pigtail wires and their connector insulators can
result in damage to the airbag circuits or connector
insulators.
(5) The clockspring driver airbag pigtail wire con-
nectors are secured by an integral lock to the airbag
inflator connector receptacles, which are located at
the back of the driver airbag housing. Firmly grasp
and pull the lock straight out from the connector
insulator, then pull the insulators straight out from
the airbag inflator to disconnect them from the con-
nector receptacles.
(6) Remove the driver airbag from the steering
wheel.
(7) If the driver airbag has been deployed, the
clockspring must be replaced. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING - REMOVAL).
DISASSEMBLY
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, FRONT IMPACT SENSOR,
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BAT-
TERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAITTWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO
DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: THE HORN SWITCH IS INTEGRAL TO
THE DRIVER AIRBAG UNIT. SERVICE OF THIS UNIT
SHOULD BE PERFORMED ONLY BY
DAIMLERCHRYSLER-TRAINED AND AUTHORIZED
DEALER SERVICE TECHNICIANS. FAILURE TO
TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS OR TO FOL-
LOW THE PROPER PROCEDURES COULD RESULT
IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR IMPROPER AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE OCCUPANT
INJURIES.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to
discharge before further service.
(2) Remove the driver airbag from the steering
wheel. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
DRIVER AIRBAG - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the four nuts that secure the upper
and lower trim cover retainers to the studs on the
back of the driver airbag housing (Fig. 20).
(4) Remove the upper and lower trim cover retain-
ers from the airbag housing studs (Fig. 21).
Fig. 19 Driver Airbag Remove/Install
1 - DRIVER AIRBAG
2 - HORN SWITCH FEED WIRE CONNECTOR
3 - STEERING WHEEL WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
4 - SCREW (2)
5 - CLOCKSPRING PIGTAIL WIRE CONNECTOR (2)
Fig. 20 Driver Airbag Trim Cover Retainer Nuts
Remove/Install
1 - HORN SWITCH GROUND PIGTAIL WIRE
2 - NUTS
3 - HORN SWITCH FEED PIGTAIL WIRE
8O - 20 RESTRAINTSWJ
DRIVER AIRBAG (Continued)

WARNING: USE EXTREME CARE TO PREVENT ANY
FOREIGN MATERIAL FROM ENTERING THE DRIVER
AIRBAG, OR BECOMING ENTRAPPED BETWEEN
THE DRIVER AIRBAG CUSHION AND THE DRIVER
AIRBAG TRIM COVER. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS
WARNING COULD RESULT IN OCCUPANT INJURIES
UPON AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT.
WARNING: THE DRIVER AIRBAG TRIM COVER
MUST NEVER BE PAINTED. REPLACEMENT AIR-
BAGS AND TRIM COVERS ARE SERVICED IN THE
ORIGINAL COLORS. PAINT MAY CHANGE THE WAY
IN WHICH THE MATERIAL OF THE TRIM COVER
RESPONDS TO AN AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT. FAIL-
URE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD RESULT
IN OCCUPANT INJURIES UPON AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
(1) Assemble the driver airbag trim cover onto the
airbag housing. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RE-
STRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG - ASSEMBLY).
(2) Position the driver airbag close enough to the
steering wheel to reconnect all three electrical con-
nections on the back of the airbag housing.
(3) When installing the driver airbag, reconnect
the two clockspring driver airbag pigtail wire connec-
tors to the airbag inflator connector receptacles by
pressing straight in on the connectors (Fig. 19), then
pushing the locks straight into the connectors. You
can be certain that the connector is fully engaged by
listening carefully for a distinct, audible click as the
connector latches snap into place.
(4) Reconnect the steering wheel wire harness con-
nector for the horn switch to the horn switch feed
pigtail wire connector, which is located at the back of
the driver airbag housing.
(5) Carefully position the driver airbag in the
steering wheel. Be certain that the clockspring pig-
tail wires and steering wheel wire harness in the
steering wheel hub area are not pinched between the
driver airbag and the steering wheel armature.
(6) From the underside of the steering wheel,
install and tighten the two screws that secure the
driver airbag to the steering wheel armature.
Tighten the screws to 10 N´m (90 in. lbs.).
(7) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The supplemental restraint system verifi-
cation test procedure should be performed following
service of any supplemental restraint system compo-
nent. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - VERIFICATION TEST).FRONT IMPACT SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
Two front impact sensors are used on this model,
one each for the left and right sides of the vehicle
(Fig. 24). These sensors are mounted remotely from
the impact sensor that is internal to the Airbag Con-
trol Module (ACM). The right and left front and side
impact sensors are identical in construction and cal-
ibration with the exception of the right-hand and
left-hand die cast aluminum mounting brackets to
which each front impact sensor is secured with two
screws. The front impact sensor brackets are secured
with three screws to the front and inboard sides of
the right and left vertical members of the radiator
support within the engine compartment.
The impact sensor housing has an integral connec-
tor receptacle and two integral mounting ears, each
with a metal sleeve to provide crush protection. A cav-
ity in the center of the molded black plastic impact
sensor housing contains the electronic circuitry of the
sensor which includes an electronic communication
chip and an electronic impact sensor. Potting material
fills the cavity to seal and protect the internal elec-
tronic circuitry and components. The front impact sen-
sors are each connected to the vehicle electrical
system through a dedicated take out and connector of
the right or left headlamp and dash wire harnesses.
The front impact sensors cannot be repaired or
adjusted and, if damaged or faulty, they must be
replaced. If a front impact sensor is faulty, only the
sensor needs to be replaced. If the sensor or the sen-
sor mounting bracket is damaged or faulty, or if
proper tightening torque of the screws that secure
the sensor to the bracket cannot be achieved, the
sensor and bracket unit must be replaced.
Fig. 24 Front Impact Sensor
1 - SENSOR
2 - CONNECTOR RECEPTACLE
WJRESTRAINTS 8O - 23
DRIVER AIRBAG (Continued)

OPERATION
The front impact sensors are electronic accelerom-
eters that sense the rate of vehicle deceleration,
which provides verification of the direction and sever-
ity of an impact. Each sensor also contains an elec-
tronic communication chip that allows the unit to
communicate the sensor status as well as sensor
fault information to the microprocessor in the Airbag
Control Module (ACM). The ACM microprocessor con-
tinuously monitors all of the passive restraint system
electrical circuits to determine the system readiness.
If the ACM detects a monitored system fault, it sets
a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and controls the
airbag indicator operation accordingly.
The impact sensors each receive battery current
and ground through dedicated left and right sensor
plus and minus circuits from the ACM. The impact
sensors and the ACM communicate by modulating
the voltage in the sensor plus circuit. The hard wired
circuits between the front impact sensors and the
ACM may be diagnosed and tested using conven-
tional diagnostic tools and procedures. However, con-
ventional diagnostic methods will not prove
conclusive in the diagnosis of the ACM or the impact
sensors. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate
means to diagnose the impact sensors, the ACM, and
the electronic message communication between the
sensors and the ACM requires the use of a DRBIIIt
scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation.
REMOVAL
The front and side impact sensors are interchange-
able except that the front impact sensors are serviced
with a right or left mounting bracket, while the side
impact sensors use no mounting bracket. If a front
impact sensor is faulty, but not damaged, the sensor
may be removed from the sensor mounting bracket
and replaced with a side impact sensor. If the front
impact sensor or the sensor mounting bracket are
damaged in any way, or if proper tightening torque of
the screws that secure the sensor to the bracket can-
not be achieved, the front impact sensor and bracket
must be replaced as a unit.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, FRONT IMPACT SENSOR,
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BAT-
TERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT
TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO
DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHERDIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR ENABLES
THE SYSTEM TO DEPLOY THE FRONT SUPPLE-
MENTAL RESTRAINTS. NEVER STRIKE OR DROP
THE FRONT IMPACT SENSOR, AS IT CAN DAMAGE
THE IMPACT SENSOR OR AFFECT ITS CALIBRA-
TION. IF AN IMPACT SENSOR IS ACCIDENTALLY
DROPPED DURING SERVICE, THE SENSOR MUST
BE SCRAPPED AND REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR
IMPROPER FRONT SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE OCCUPANT INJU-
RIES.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to
discharge before further service.
(2) From the engine compartment, disconnect the
right or left headlamp and dash wire harness connec-
tor for the front impact sensor from the sensor con-
nector receptacle (Fig. 25).
Fig. 25 Front Impact Sensor Remove/Install (Right
Side Shown, Left Side Similar)
1 - BRACKET
2 - IMPACT SENSOR
3 - RADIATOR SUPPORT
4 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
5 - SCREW (2)
8O - 24 RESTRAINTSWJ
FRONT IMPACT SENSOR (Continued)