Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) (Opel Astra G)

See also the information provided in Chapter User manual.

General information

All models covered in this Guide are equipped with the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). The system includes airbags (one or two front airbags [driver's airbag is standard on all models], two side airbags, two ceiling airbags [optional], and emergency seat belt tensioners). The system provides additional protection for the driver and front passenger of the vehicle in the event of severe frontal and side impacts, as well as in the event of a rollover (depending on the configuration). The brain of the system is the SRS control unit, which includes self-diagnostic and feedback circuits, the nerve endings are the directional overload sensors and the control sensor in the unit. The unit is located under the instrument panel, directly in front of the central console. The directional overload sensors and airbag modules are mounted in the central part of the steering wheel and the right part of the vehicle's instrument panel (directly above the glove compartment).

Operating principle

A prerequisite for the activation of airbags and emergency belt tensioners is the activation of the directional overload sensors and the control sensor. The activation of the sensors leads to the closure of the module circuit and the immediate filling of the airbags with gas, as well as to the activation of the emergency tensioner pyropatrons. In the event of a battery failure, the system elements are activated by the energy generated by the feedback unit built into the SRS unit.

The front airbags and emergency seat belt tensioners are activated only in frontal collisions within a 30-degree sector and at a relative speed of at least 30 km/h.

SRS self-diagnosis system

The SRS self-diagnosis system turns on the indicator lamp on the vehicle instrument cluster when the ignition key is turned to the ON position. If the system does not detect any abnormalities, the lamp should go out after approximately 6 seconds. If the indicator lamp does not turn off, or the lamp comes on while the vehicle is moving, then a malfunction has been detected in the SRS system. The corresponding diagnostic codes are stored in the on-board processor memory and can be read using a special scanner-type reader connected to the vehicle's DLC connector (see Chapter Power and exhaust systems). To check the system and eliminate the causes of detected failures, the car should be driven to a service station. A list of the most common SRS fault codes is given in Specifications.

Servicing of components located near SRS components

If it is necessary to remove the steering wheel or service the radio or other components located near the instrument panel, try not to disconnect the electrical connectors of the SRS circuit. Never connect any diagnostic equipment to the SRS circuit! WHEN SERVICING ANY COMPONENTS LOCATED NEAR THE AIR BAG, ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE SRS FIRST (see below).

The SRS circuit wiring is easily identified by its bright yellow insulation color.

Disabling the SRS system

The SRS system must be disabled each time servicing procedures are performed on components located near the airbags!

1. Turn off the ignition and all on-board electrical consumers. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery first, then the positive cable. Wait at least 1 minute before servicing components to allow the SRS emergency power supply capacitor to discharge.

If your car stereo system is equipped with a security code, make sure you have the correct combination to activate the audio system before disconnecting the battery!

Precautionary measures

General precautions

The following precautions should be taken before performing any service on SRS equipped vehicles.

• Do not disconnect the battery while the engine is running;
• Before starting work near the location of SRS elements, removing any system components, or performing welding work on the vehicle, be sure to deactivate the system (see above);
• Do not attempt to diagnose the system using testers, multimeters or other measuring devices;
• If the SRS warning light comes on, or if you suspect a system malfunction, immediately take the car to a service station for a detailed SRS diagnosis using special equipment. Never attempt to diagnose or disassemble any system components yourself!

Precautions to take when handling airbags

• When handling the air bag module, hold it with the front side facing away from you. air bag with the air bag facing up;
• Do not grasp the module removed from the vehicle with your hands;
• Try not to drop or shake the module - if it falls from a height of more than 50 cm, the module must be replaced;
• Do not attempt to disassemble the module;
• Do not allow any electronic devices to come into contact with any electrical components of the SRS modules;
• Avoid contact with solvents or cleaning agents on the airbag module; if necessary, wipe the surface of the module with a slightly damp cloth.

Precautions for storing the airbag

Material taken from an internet portal: OPELBOOK

• Store the airbag module in a closed rack with the front side facing up;
• The storage temperature of the module must not exceed 90°C;
• Do not approach the airbag module with an open flame;
• Disposal of airbags must be carried out in accordance with local legislation;
• Never install an airbag on a vehicle unless you are absolutely sure that it is in good working order.