Stored Codes

Airbag codes are automatically stored in the ACM's memory as soon as the malfunction is detected. A "stored" code indicates there was an active code present at some time. However, the code currently may not be present as an active code. When a trouble code occurs, the airbag warning lamp illuminates for 12 seconds minimum (even if the problem existed for less than 12 seconds). The code is stored, along with the time in minutes it was active, and the number of times the ignition has been cycled since the problem was last detected. The minimum time shown for any code will be one minute, even if the code was actually present for less than one minute. Thus, the time shown for a code that was present for two minutes 13 seconds, for example, would be three minutes. If a malfunction is detected a diagnostic trouble code is stored and will remain stored as long as the malfunction exists. When and if the malfunction ceases to exist, an ignition cycle count will be initiated for that code. If the ignition cycle count reaches 100 without a reoccurrence of the same malfunction, the diagnostic trouble code is erased and that ignition cycle counter is reset to zero. If the malfunction reoccurs before the count reaches 100, then the ignition cycle counter will be reset and the diagnostic trouble code will continue to be a stored code.

If a malfunction is not active while performing a diagnostic test, the active code diagnostic test will not locate the source or the condition. In this case, the stored code can indicate an area to inspect. The following procedure may uncover a malfunction that is difficult to locate:

If no obvious problems are found:

• Erase the stored codes
• Place the ignition in the Run position
• Wiggle the wire harness and connectors
• Rotate the steering wheel from stop to stop