Dodge RAM 1500 User Manual page 20

G E T T I N G S T A R T E D
• The Advanced Front Air Bags will not deploy in all frontal collisions, including
some that may produce substantial vehicle damage — for example, some pole
collisions, truck underrides, and angle offset collisions.
• On the other hand, depending on the type and location of impact, Advanced Front
Air Bags may deploy in crashes with little vehicle front-end damage but that
produce a severe initial deceleration.
• Because air bag sensors measure vehicle deceleration over time, vehicle speed
and damage by themselves are not good indicators of whether or not an air bag
should have deployed.
• Seat belts are necessary for your protection in all collisions, and also are needed
to help keep you in position, away from an inflating air bag.
• The air bags must be ready to inflate for your protection in a collision. The
Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) monitors the internal circuits and intercon-
necting wiring associated with air bag system electrical components.
• The ORC turns on the Air Bag Warning Light in the instrument panel for
approximately four to eight seconds for a self-check when the ignition switch is
first turned to the ON/RUN position. After the self-check, the Air Bag Warning
Light will turn off. If the ORC detects a malfunction in any part of the system, it
turns on the Air Bag Warning Light, either momentarily or continuously. A single
chime will sound to alert you if the light comes on again after initial startup.
• The ORC monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the air bag system
whenever the ignition switch is in the START or ON/RUN position. If the ignition
switch is in the OFF position or in the ACC position, the air bag system is not on
and the air bags will not inflate.
• If the Air Bag Warning Light in the instrument panel is not on during the four to
eight seconds when the ignition switch is first turned to the ON/RUN position,
stays on, or turns on while driving, have the vehicle serviced by an authorized
service center immediately.
NOTE:
If the speedometer, tachometer, or any engine related gauges are not working, the
Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) may also be disabled. In this condition the air
bags may not be ready to inflate for your protection. Have an authorized dealer
service the air bag system immediately.
• After any collision, the vehicle should be taken to an authorized dealer immedi-
ately.
• Do not drive your vehicle after the air bags have deployed. If you are involved in
another collision, the air bags will not be in place to protect you.
• If it is necessary to modify the air bag system for persons with disabilities, contact
your authorized dealer.
• Refer to the Owner's Manual on the DVD for further details regarding the
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS).
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