Chevrolet 1998 Prizm Owner's Manual page 124

Air Bag Readiness Light
There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument
panel, which shows the words AIR BAG. The system
checks the air bag's electrical system for malfunctions.
The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The
system check includes the air bag sensors, the air bag
modules, the wiring and the diagnostic module. For
more information on the air bag system, see "Air Bag"
in the Index.
AIR
BAG
This light will come on for
a
few seconds when you
start your engine. Then the
light should go out. This
means
the
system
is
ready.
If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the
engine or comes on when you are driving, your air bag
system may not work properly. If the light comes on and
flashes, your side impact air bag system or safety belt
pretensioner system may not work properly. Have your
vehicle serviced right away.
The air bag readiness light should come
on
for
a
few
seconds when
you turn
the ignition key to ON. If the
light doesn't come on then, have it fixed
so
it will be
ready to warn you if there is a problem.
Charging System Light
This light will come on
briefly when you turn on the
ignition, but the engine is
not running, as a check to
show you it is working.
Then it should go out when
the engine starts.
If it stays on, or comes on while you are driving,
you may have a problem with the electrical charging
system. It could indicate that you have a loose generator
drive belt or another electrical problem. Have it checked
right away. Driving while this light is on could drain
your battery.
If you must drive a short distance with the charging
system light on, be certain to turn off all your
accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner.
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