Dodge Journey: OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS

Some of the most important safety features in your vehicle are the restraint systems: • Three-point lap and shoulder belts for all seating positions.

• Advanced Front Airbags for driver and front passenger.

• Supplemental Active Head Restraints (AHR) located on top of the front seats (integrated into the head restraint).

• Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtains (SABIC) that span the front, second, and third row seating for the driver and passengers seated next to a window — if equipped.

• Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Airbags (SAB) — if equipped.

• An energy-absorbing steering column and steering wheel.

• Knee bolsters/blockers for front seat occupants.

• Front seat belts incorporate pretensioners to enhance occupant protection by managing occupant energy during an impact event — if equipped.

• All seat belt systems (except the driver’s) include Automatic Locking Retractors (ALRs), which lock the seat belt webbing into position by extending the belt all the way out and then adjusting the belt to the desired length to restrain a child seat or secure a large item in a seat — if equipped If you will be carrying children too small for adult-sized seat belts, the seat belts or the Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH) feature also can be used to hold infant and child restraint systems. For more information on LATCH, see Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH).

NOTE: The Advanced Front Airbags have a multistage inflator design. This allows the airbag to have different rates of inflation based on the severity and type of collision.

Please pay close attention to the information in this section. It tells you how to use your restraint system properly, to keep you and your passengers as safe as possible.

WARNING:
In a collision, you and your passengers can suffer much greater injuries if you are not properly buckled up. You can strike the interior of your vehicle or other passengers, or you can be thrown out of the vehicle.

Always be sure you and others in your vehicle are buckled up properly.

Buckle up even though you are an excellent driver, even on short trips. Someone on the road may be a poor driver and cause a collision that includes you. This can happen far away from home or on your own street.

Research has shown that seat belts save lives, and they can reduce the seriousness of injuries in a collision. Some of the worst injuries happen when people are thrown from the vehicle. Seat belts reduce the possibility of ejection and the risk of injury caused by striking the inside of the vehicle. Everyone in a motor vehicle should be belted at all times.

Lap/Shoulder Belts

All seating positions in your vehicle are equipped with combination lap/shoulder belts.

The belt webbing retractor is designed to lock during very sudden stops or impacts. This feature allows the shoulder part of the belt to move freely with you under normal conditions. However, in a collision, the belt will lock and reduce your risk of striking the inside of the vehicle or being thrown out.

WARNING:
• It is dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed.

• Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and seat belts.

• Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a seat belt properly.

• Wearing a seat belt incorrectly is dangerous. Seat belts are designed to go around the large bones of your body. These are the strongest parts of your body and can take the forces of a collision best.

• Wearing your belt in the wrong place could make your injuries in a collision much worse. You might suffer internal injuries, or you could even slide out of part of the belt. Follow these instructions to wear your seat belt safely and to keep your passengers safe, too.

• Two people should never be belted into a single seat belt. People belted together can crash into one another in a collision, hurting one another badly.

Never use a lap/shoulder belt or a lap belt for more than one person, no matter what their size.

Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions

1. Enter the vehicle and close the door. Sit back and adjust the front seat.

2. The seat belt latch plate is along side the pillar near the back of your seat. Grasp the latch plate and pull out the belt. Slide the latch plate up the webbing as far as necessary to make the belt go around your lap.

Pulling Out Lap/Shoulder Belt
Pulling Out Lap/Shoulder Belt

3. When the belt is long enough to fit, insert the latch plate into the buckle until you hear a “click.”

Connecting Latch Plate To Buckle
Connecting Latch Plate To Buckle

WARNING:
• A belt that is buckled into the wrong buckle will not protect you properly. The lap portion could ride too high on your body, possibly causing internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.

• A belt that is too loose will not protect you properly. In a sudden stop, you could move too far forward, increasing the possibility of injury. Wear your seat belt snugly.

• A belt that is worn under your arm is dangerous.

Your body could strike the inside surfaces of the vehicle in a collision, increasing head and neck injury. A belt worn under the arm can cause internal injuries. Ribs aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. Wear the belt over your shoulder so that your strongest bones will take the force in a collision.

• A shoulder belt placed behind you will not protect you from injury during a collision. You are more likely to hit your head in a collision if you do not wear your shoulder belt. The lap and shoulder belt are meant to be used together.

4. Position the lap belt across your thighs, below your abdomen. To remove slack in the lap belt portion, pull up a bit on the shoulder belt. To loosen the lap belt if it is too tight, tilt the latch plate and pull on the lap belt. A snug belt reduces the risk of sliding under the belt in a collision.

Removing Slack From Belt
Removing Slack From Belt

WARNING:
• A lap belt worn too high can increase the risk of internal injury in a collision. The belt forces won’t be at the strong hip and pelvic bones, but across your abdomen. Always wear the lap belt as low as possible and keep it snug.

• A twisted belt can’t do its job properly. In a collision, it could even cut into you. Be sure the belt is straight. If you can’t straighten a belt in your vehicle, take it to your authorized dealer immediately and have it fixed.

5. Position the shoulder belt on your chest so that it is comfortable and not resting on your neck. The retractor will withdraw any slack in the belt.

6. To release the belt, push the red button on the buckle.

The belt will automatically retract to its stowed position.

If necessary, slide the latch plate down the webbing to allow the belt to retract fully.

WARNING:
A frayed or torn belt could rip apart in a collision and leave you with no protection. Inspect the belt system periodically, checking for cuts, frays, or loose parts.

Damaged parts must be replaced immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system. Seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a collision if they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing, etc.).

Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage

In the driver’s seat and front passenger’s seat, the shoulder belt can be adjusted upward or downward to position the belt away from your neck. Push and fully depress the button above the webbing to release the anchorage, then move it up or down to the position that fits you best.

Adjusting Upper Shoulder Belt
Adjusting Upper Shoulder Belt

As a guide, if you are shorter than average you will prefer a lower position and if you are taller than average you will prefer a higher position. When you release the anchorage try to move it up and down to make sure that it is locked in position.

In the rear seat, move toward the center of the seat to position the belt away from your neck.

Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure

Use the following procedure to untwist a twisted lap/ shoulder belt.

1. Position the latch plate as close as possible to the anchor point.

2. At about 6 to 12 in (15 to 30 cm) above the latch plate, grasp and twist the belt webbing 180 degrees to create a fold that begins immediately above the latch plate.

3. Slide the latch plate upward over the folded webbing.

The folded webbing must enter the slot at the top of the latch plate.

4. Continue to slide the latch plate up until it clears the folded webbing.

Automatic Locking Retractors (ALR) Mode — If Equipped

In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically prelocked.

The belt will still retract to remove any slack in the shoulder belt. The Automatic Locking Mode is available on all passenger-seating positions with a combination lap/shoulder belt.

When To Use The Automatic Locking Mode

Use the Automatic Locking Mode anytime a child safety seat is installed in a seating position that has a belt with this feature. Children 12 years old and under should always be properly restrained in the rear seat.

How To Engage The Automatic Locking Mode

1. Buckle the combination lap and shoulder belt.

2. Grasp the shoulder portion and pull downward until the entire belt is extracted.

3. Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the Automatic Locking Mode.

How To Disengage The Automatic Locking Mode

Unbuckle the combination lap/shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the Automatic Locking Mode and activate the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode.

Seat Belt Pretensioners — If Equipped

The seat belts for both front seating positions may be equipped with pretensioning devices that are designed to remove slack from the seat belt in the event of a collision.

These devices improve the performance of the seat belt by assuring that the belt is tight about the occupant early in a collision. Pretensioners work for all size occupants, including those in child restraints.

NOTE: These devices are not a substitute for proper seat belt placement by the occupant. The seat belt still must be worn snugly and positioned properly.

The pretensioners are triggered by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). Like the airbags, the pretensioners are single use items. A deployed pretensioner or a deployed airbag, must be replaced immediately.

Supplemental Active Head Restraints (AHR)

These head restraints are passive, deployable components, and vehicles with this equipment can not be readily identified by any markings, only through visual inspection of the head restraint. The head restraint will be split in two halves, with the front half being soft foam and trim, the back half being decorative plastic.

How the Active Head Restraints (AHR) Work

The Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) determines whether the severity, or type of rear impact will require the Active Head Restraints (AHR) to deploy. If a rear impact requires deployment, both the driver and front passenger seat AHRs will be deployed.

When AHRs deploy during a rear impact, the front half of the head restraint extends forward to minimize the gap between the back of the occupant’s head and the AHR.

This system is designed to help prevent or reduce the extent of injuries to the driver and front passenger in certain types of rear impacts.

NOTE: The Active Head Restraints (AHR) may or may not deploy in the event of a front or side impact.

However if during a front impact, a secondary rear impact occurs, the AHR may deploy based on the severity and type of the impact.

Active Head Restraint (AHR) Components
Active Head Restraint (AHR) Components

1 — Head Restraint Front Half (Soft Foam and Trim).

3 — Head Restraint Back Half (Decorative Plastic Rear Cover).

2 — Seatback.
4 — Head Restraint Guide Tubes.

CAUTION:
All occupants, including the driver, should not operate a vehicle or sit in a vehicle’s seat until the head restraints are placed in their proper positions in order to minimize the risk of neck injury in the event of a collision.

NOTE: For more information on properly adjusting and positioning the head restraint, refer to “Adjusting Active Head Restraints” in “Understanding The Features Of Your Vehicle”.

Resetting Active Head Restraints (AHR)

If the Active Head Restraints are triggered in a collision, you must reset the head restraint on the driver’s and front passenger seat. You can recognize when the Active Head Restraint has been triggered by the fact that they have moved forward (as shown in step three of the resetting procedure).

1. Grasp the deployed AHR from the rear seat.

Hand Positioning Points On AHR
Hand Positioning Points On AHR

2. Position the hands on the top of the deployed AHR at a comfortable position.

3. Pull down then rearward towards the rear of the vehicle then down to engage the locking mechanism.

1 — Downward Movement.


1 — Downward Movement.

2 — Rearward Movement.

3 — Final Downward Movement To Engage Locking Mechanism


3 — Final Downward Movement To Engage Locking Mechanism

4. The AHR front soft foam and trim half should lock into the back decorative plastic half.

AHR In Reset Position
AHR In Reset Position

NOTE:
• If you have difficulties or problems resetting the Active Head Restraints, see an authorized dealer.

• For safety reasons, have the Active Head Restraints checked by a qualified specialist at an authorized dealer.

Enhanced Seat Belt Use Reminder System (BeltAlert )

If the driver’s or front passenger’s (if equipped with belt alert) seat belt has not been buckled within 60 seconds of starting the vehicle and if the vehicle speed is greater than 5 mph (8 km/h), the Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert ) will alert the driver or front passenger to buckle the seat belt. The driver should also instruct all other occupants to buckle their seat belts. Once the warning is triggered, BeltAlert will continue to chime and flash the Seat Belt Reminder Light for 96 seconds or until the driver’s or front passenger’s seat belt is buckled.

BeltAlert will be reactivated if the driver’s or passenger’s seat belt is unbuckled for more than 10 seconds and the vehicle speed is greater than 5 mph (8 km/h).

For front passenger seats equipped with BeltAlert, your vehicle is equipped to detect when it is occupied. The BeltAlert warning system is not activated when the front passenger seat is unoccupied. The BeltAlert warning system may be triggered when an animal or heavy object is on the front passenger seat or when the seat is folded flat (if equipped). It is recommended that pets be restrained in the rear seat in pet harnesses or pet carriers that are secured by seat belts and cargo is properly stowed.

BeltAlert Programming

The BeltAlert can be enabled or disabled by your authorized dealer or by performing the following steps:

NOTE: The following steps must occur within the first 60 seconds of the ignition switch being turned to the ON or START position. Chrysler Group LLC does not recommend deactivating BeltAlert .

1. With all doors closed, and the ignition switch in any position except ON or START, buckle the driver’s seat belt.

2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position, (do not start the engine). Wait for the Seat Belt Reminder Light to turn off and then proceed to the next step.

3. Unbuckle the driver’s seat belt, allow the seat belt to retract, and then re-buckle the driver’s seat belt at least three times, ending with the seat belt buckled.

NOTE: Watch for the Seat Belt Reminder Light to turn on while the seat belt retracts and turn off while rebuckling the seat belt. It may be necessary to completely retract the seat belt each time.

4. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. A single chime will sound to signify that you have successfully completed the programming.

The BeltAlert can be reactivated by repeating this procedure.

NOTE: When the BeltAlert is deactivated, the Seat Belt Reminder Light will continue to illuminate as long as the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled or retracted.

Seat Belts and Pregnant Women

We recommend that pregnant women use the seat belts throughout their pregnancy. Keeping the mother safe is the best way to keep the baby safe.

Pregnant women should wear the lap part of the belt across the thighs and as snug across the hips as possible.

Keep the belt low so that it does not come across the abdomen. That way the strong bones of the hips will take the force if there is a collision.

Seat Belt Extender

If a seat belt is too short even when fully extended and when the adjustable upper shoulder belt anchorage (if equipped) is in its lowest position, your authorized dealer can provide you with a seat belt extender. This extender should be used only if the existing belt is not long enough. When it is not required, remove the extender and store it.

WARNING:
Using a seat belt extender when not needed can increase the risk of injury in a collision. Only use when the seat belt is not long enough when it is worn low and snug and in the recommended seating positions.

Remove and store the extender when not needed.

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) — Airbags

This vehicle has Advanced Front Airbags for both the driver and front passenger as a supplement to the seat belt restraint systems. The driver’s Advanced Front Airbag is mounted in the center of the steering wheel. The passenger’s Advanced Front Airbag is mounted in the instrument panel, above the glove compartment. The words SRS AIRBAG are embossed on the airbag covers.

Front Airbag Components
Front Airbag Components

1 — Driver Advanced Front Airbag 2 — Passenger Advanced Front Airbag 3 — Knee Bolsters

NOTE: These airbags are certified to the new Federal regulations for Advanced Airbags.

The Advanced Front Airbags have a multistage inflator design. This allows the airbag to have different rates of inflation based on the severity and type of collision.

This vehicle may be equipped with driver and/or front passenger seat track position sensors that may adjust the inflation rate of the Advanced Front Airbags based upon seat position.

This vehicle may be equipped with a driver and/or front passenger seat belt buckle switch that detects whether the driver or front passenger seat belt is fastened. The seat belt buckle switch may adjust the inflation rate of the Advanced Front Airbags.

This vehicle may also be equipped with Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtains (SABIC) to protect the driver, front, and rear passengers sitting next to a window.

If the vehicle is equipped with SABIC airbags, they are located above the side windows and their covers are also labeled: SRS AIRBAG.

This vehicle may also be equipped with Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Airbags (SAB). If the vehicle is equipped with Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Airbags they are marked with an airbag label sewn into the outboard side of the front seats.

NOTE:
• Airbag covers may not be obvious in the interior trim; but they will open during airbag deployment.

• After any collision, the vehicle should be taken to an authorized dealer immediately.

Airbag System Components

Your vehicle may be equipped with the following airbag system components:
• Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC).

• Airbag Warning Light.

• Steering Wheel and Column.

• Instrument Panel.

• Knee Impact Bolster.

• Driver Advanced Front Airbag.

• Passenger Advanced Front Airbag.

• Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Airbags (SAB).

• Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtains (SABIC).

• Front and Side Impact Sensors.

• Front Seat Belt Pretensioners, Seat Belt Buckle Switch, and Seat Track Position Sensors.

• Supplemental Active Head Restraint for Driver and Front Passenger.

Advanced Front Airbag Features

The Advanced Front Airbag system has multistage driver and front passenger airbags. This system provides output appropriate to the severity and type of collision as determined by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), which may receive information from the front impact sensors.

The first stage inflator is triggered immediately during an impact that requires airbag deployment. The timing of the second stage determines whether the output force is low, medium, or high. If a low output is sufficient to meet the need, the remaining gas in the inflator is expended.

WARNING:
• No objects should be placed over or near the airbag on the instrument panel, because any such objects could cause harm if the vehicle is in a collision severe enough to cause the airbag to inflate.

• Do not put anything on or around the airbag covers or attempt to open them manually. You may damage the airbags and you could be injured because the airbags may no longer be functional.

The protective covers for the airbag cushions are designed to open only when the airbags are inflating.

• Do not drill, cut or tamper with the knee bolster in any way.

• Do not mount any accessories to the knee bolster such as alarm lights, stereos, citizen band radios, etc.

Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Airbags (SAB) — If Equipped

Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Airbags provide enhanced protection to help protect an occupant during a side impact. The Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Airbag is marked with an airbag label sewn into the outboard side of the front seats.

Seat Mounted Side Airbag Label
Seat Mounted Side Airbag Label

When the airbag deploys, it opens the seam between the front and side of the seat’s trim cover. Each airbag deploys independently, that is a left side impact deploys the left airbag only and a right-side impact deploys only the right airbag.

Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC) — If Equipped

SABIC airbags may offer side-impact and vehicle rollover protection to front and rear seat outboard occupants in addition to that provided by the body structure. Each airbag features inflated chambers placed adjacent to the head of each outboard occupant that reduce the potential for side-impact head injuries. The curtains deploy downward, covering both windows on the impact side.

Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtain Location
Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtain Location

NOTE:
• Should a vehicle rollover occur, the pretensioners and/or SABIC airbags on both sides of the vehicle may deploy.

• Airbag covers may not be obvious in the interior trim; but they will open during airbag deployment.

The system includes side impact sensors adjacent to both front and rear seat occupants that are calibrated to deploy the SABIC airbags during impacts that require airbag occupant protection.

WARNING:
• If your vehicle is equipped with left and right Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC), do not stack luggage or other cargo up high enough to block the location of the SABIC.

The area where the SABIC is located should remain free from any obstructions.

• Do not use accessory seat covers or place objects between you and the side airbags; the performance could be adversely affected and/or objects could be pushed into you, causing serious injury.

Knee Impact Bolsters

The Knee Impact Bolsters help protect the knees of the driver and the front passenger, and position front occupants for the best interaction with the Advanced Front Airbags.

Along with seat belts and pretensioners, Advanced Front Airbags work with the knee bolsters to provide improved protection for the driver and front passenger. Side airbags also work with seat belts to improve occupant protection.

Here are some simple steps you can take to minimize the risk of harm from a deploying airbag: Children 12 years old and under should always ride buckled up in a rear seat.

WARNING:
Infants in rear-facing child restraints should NEVER ride in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger Advanced Front Airbag. An airbag deployment can cause severe injury or death to infants in that position.

Children that are not big enough to wear the vehicle seat belt properly (see Section on Child Restraints) should be secured in the rear seat in child restraints or beltpositioning booster seats. Older children who do not use child restraints or belt-positioning booster seats should ride properly buckled up in the rear seat. Never allow children to slide the shoulder belt behind them or under their arm.

If a child from 1 to 12 years old (not in a rear facing child seat) must ride in the front passenger seat, move the seat as far back as possible and use the proper child restraint.

(Refer to “Child Restraints”) You should read the instructions provided with your child restraint to make sure that you are using it properly.

All occupants should ALWAYS wear their lap and shoulder belts properly.

The driver and front passenger seats should be moved back as far as practical to allow the Advanced Front Airbags room to inflate.

Do not lean against the door or window. If your vehicle has side airbags, and deployment occurs, the side airbags will inflate forcefully into the space between you and the door.

If the airbag system in this vehicle needs to be modified to accommodate a disabled person, contact the Customer Center. Phone numbers are provided under If You Need Assistance .

WARNING:
• Relying on the airbags alone could lead to more severe injuries in a collision. The airbags work with your seat belt to restrain you properly. In some collisions, the airbags won’t deploy at all.

Always wear your seat belts even though you have airbags.

• Being too close to the steering wheel or instrument panel during Advanced Front Airbag deployment could cause serious injury, including death. Airbags need room to inflate. Sit back, comfortably extending your arms to reach the steering wheel or instrument panel.

• Side airbags also need room to inflate. Do not lean against the door or window. Sit upright in the center of the seat.

Airbag Deployment Sensors and Controls

Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)

The ORC is part of a Federally regulated safety system required for this vehicle.

The ORC determines if deployment of the front and/or side airbags in a frontal or side collision is required.

Based on the impact sensors signals, a central electronic ORC deploys the Advanced Front Airbags, SABIC airbags — if equipped, Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Airbags — if equipped, and front seat belt pretensioners — if equipped, as required, depending on the severity and type of impact.

Advanced Front Airbags are designed to provide additional protection by supplementing the seat belts in certain frontal collisions depending on the severity and type of collision. Advanced Front Airbags are not expected to reduce the risk of injury in rear, side, or rollover collisions.

The Advanced Front Airbags 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 Airbags may deploy in crashes with little vehicle front-end damage but that produce a severe initial deceleration.

The side airbags will not deploy in all side collisions. Side airbag deployment will depend on the severity and type of collision.

Because airbag sensors measure vehicle deceleration over time, vehicle speed and damage by themselves are not good indicators of whether or not an airbag 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 airbag.

The ORC monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the airbag system whenever the ignition switch is in the START or ON position. If the key is in the LOCK position, in the ACC position, or not in the ignition, the airbag system is not on and the airbags will not inflate.

The ORC contains a backup power supply system that may deploy the airbags even if the battery loses power or it becomes disconnected prior to deployment.

WarningAlso, the ORC turns on the Airbag
Warning
Light in the instrument panel for approximately four to six seconds for a self-check when the ignition is first turned on. After the self-check, the Airbag Warning Light will turn off. If the ORC detects a malfunction in any part of the system, it turns on the Airbag Warning Light, either momentarily or continuously. A single chime will sound if the light comes on again after initial startup.

It also includes diagnostics that will illuminate the instrument cluster Airbag Warning Light if a malfunction is noted that could affect the airbag system. The diagnostics also record the nature of the malfunction.

WARNING:
Ignoring the Airbag Warning Light in your instrument panel could mean you won’t have the airbags to protect you in a collision. If the light does not come on, stays on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as you drive, have the airbag system checked right away by an authorized dealer.

Driver and Passenger Airbag Inflator Units

The Driver and Passenger Airbag Inflator Units are located in the center of the steering wheel and the right side of the instrument panel. When the ORC detects a collision requiring the Advanced Front Airbags, it signals the inflator units. A large quantity of non-toxic gas is generated to inflate the Advanced Front Airbags. Different airbag inflation rates are possible, based on the collision type and severity. The steering wheel hub trim cover and the upper right side of the instrument panel separate and fold out of the way as the airbags inflate to their full size. The airbags fully inflate in about 50 to 70 milliseconds. This is about half of the time it takes to blink your eyes. The airbags then quickly deflate while helping to restrain the driver and front passenger.

The Advanced Front Airbag gas is vented through the vent holes in the sides of the airbag. In this way, the airbags do not interfere with your control of the vehicle.

Supplemental Seat-Mounted Side Airbag Inflator Units — If Equipped

The Side Impact (SRS) Seat-Mounted Side Airbags are designed to activate only in certain side collisions.

The ORC determines if a side collision requires the side airbags to inflate based on the severity and type of collision.

The ORC monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the airbag system whenever the ignition switch is in the START or ON positions. These include all of the items previously mentioned.

Based on the severity and type of collision, the side airbag inflator on the crash side of the vehicle may be triggered, releasing a quantity of non-toxic gas. The inflating side airbag exits through the seat seam into the space between the occupant and the door. The side airbags fully inflate in about 10 milliseconds. The side airbag moves at a very high speed and with such a high force, that it could injure you if you are not seated properly, or if items are positioned in the area where the side airbag inflates. This especially applies to children.

Supplemental Side Airbag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC) Inflator Units — If Equipped

During collisions where the impact is confined to a particular area of the side of the vehicle, the ORC may deploy the SABIC airbags, depending on the severity and type of collision. In these events, the ORC will deploy the SABIC only on the impact side of the vehicle.

Aquantity of non-toxic gas is generated to inflate the side curtain airbag. The inflating side curtain airbag pushes the outside edge of the headliner out of the way and covers the window. The airbag inflates in about 30 ms (about one-quarter of the time that it takes to blink your eyes) with enough force to injure you if you are not belted and seated properly, or if items are positioned in the area where the side curtain airbag inflates. This especially applies to children. The side curtain airbag is only about 3-1/2 in (9 cm) thick when it is inflated.

Because airbag sensors estimate deceleration over time, vehicle speed and damage are not good indicators of whether or not an airbag should have deployed.

NOTE: In a rollover the pretensioners and/or SABIC airbags may deploy on both sides of the vehicle.

Front and Side Impact Sensors

In front and side impacts, impact sensors can aid the ORC in determining appropriate response to impact events. Additional sensors in the ORC determine the level of airbag deployment and provide verification.

Enhanced Accident Response System

In the event of an impact causing airbag deployment, if the communication network remains intact, and the power remains intact, depending on the nature of the event the ORC will determine whether to have the Enhanced Accident Response System perform the following functions:
• Cut off fuel to the engine.

• Flash hazard lights as long as the battery has power or until the ignition key is turned off.

• Turn on the interior lights, which remain on as long as the battery has power or until the ignition key is removed.

• Unlock the doors automatically.

If a Deployment Occurs

The front airbags are designed to deflate immediately after deployment.

NOTE: Front and/or side airbags will not deploy in all collisions. This does not mean something is wrong with the airbag system.

If you do have a collision which deploys the airbags, any or all of the following may occur: • The nylon airbag material may sometimes cause abrasions and/or skin reddening to the driver and front passenger as the airbags deploy and unfold. The abrasions are similar to friction rope burns or those you might get sliding along a carpet or gymnasium floor. They are not caused by contact with chemicals.

They are not permanent and normally heal quickly.

However, if you haven’t healed significantly within a few days, or if you have any blistering, see your doctor immediately.

• As the airbags deflate, you may see some smoke-like particles. The particles are a normal by-product of the process that generates the non-toxic gas used for airbag inflation. These airborne particles may irritate the skin, eyes, nose, or throat. If you have skin or eye irritation, rinse the area with cool water. For nose or throat irritation, move to fresh air. If the irritation continues, see your doctor. If these particles settle on your clothing, follow the garment manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning.

Do not drive your vehicle after the airbags have deployed.

If you are involved in another collision, the airbags will not be in place to protect you.

WARNING:
Deployed airbags and seat belt pretensioners cannot protect you in another collision. Have the airbags, seat belt pretensioners, and the front passenger seat belt retractor assembly replaced by an authorized dealer as soon as possible. Also, have the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) system serviced as well.

Maintaining Your Airbag System

WARNING:
• Modifications to any part of the airbag system could cause it to fail when you need it. You could be injured if the airbag system is not there to protect you. Do not modify the components or wiring, including adding any kind of badges or stickers to the steering wheel hub trim cover or the upper right side of the instrument panel. Do not modify the front bumper, vehicle body structure, or add aftermarket side steps or running boards.

• It is dangerous to try to repair any part of the airbag system yourself. Be sure to tell anyone who works on your vehicle that it has an airbag system.

• Do not attempt to modify any part of your advanced airbag system. The airbag may inflate accidentally or may not function properly if modifications are made. Take your vehicle to an authorized dealer for any advanced airbag system service.

If your seat, including your trim cover and cushion, needs to be serviced in any way (including removal or loosening/tightening of seat attachment bolts), take the vehicle to your authorized dealer. Only manufacturer approved seat accessories may be used. If it is necessary to modify the airbag system for persons with disabilities, contact your authorized dealer.

Airbag Warning Light

ready toYou will want to have the airbags
ready to
inflate for your protection in a collision. While the airbag system is designed to be maintenance free, if any of the following occurs, have an authorized dealer service the system immediately.

• The Airbag Warning Light does not come on for approximately four to six seconds when the ignition switch is first turned ON.

• The Airbag Warning Light remains on after the approximate four to six-second interval.

• The Airbag Warning Light comes on intermittently or remains on while driving.

NOTE: If the speedometer, tachometer, or any engine related gauges are not working, the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) may also be disabled. The airbags may not be ready to inflate for your protection. Promptly check the fuse block for blown fuses. Refer to the label located on the inside of the fuse block cover for the proper airbag fuses. See your authorized dealer if the fuse is good.

Event Data Recorder (EDR)

In the event of a collision, your vehicle is designed to record up to five seconds of specific vehicle data parameters (see list below) in an event data recorder prior to the moment of airbag deployment, or near deployment (if applicable), and up to a quarter second of either highspeed deceleration data or change in velocity during and/or after airbag deployment or near-deployment.

EDR data is ONLY recorded if an airbag deploys, or nearly deploys, and is otherwise unavailable.

NOTE:
1. A near-deployment event occurs when the airbag sensor detects severe vehicle deceleration usually indicative of a crash, but not severe enough to warrant airbag deployment.

2. Under certain circumstances, EDR data may not be recorded (e.g., loss of battery power).

In conjunction with other data gathered during a complete accident investigation, the electronic data may be used by Chrysler Group LLC and others to learn more about the possible causes of crashes and associated injuries in order to assess and improve vehicle performance.

In addition to crash investigations initiated by Chrysler Group LLC, such investigations may be requested by customers, insurance carriers, government officials, and professional crash researchers, such as those associated with universities, and with hospital and insurance organizations.

In the event that an investigation is undertaken by Chrysler Group LLC (regardless of initiative), the company or its designated representative will first obtain permission of the appropriate custodial entity for the vehicle (usually the vehicle owner or lessee) before accessing the electronic data stored, unless ordered to image the data by a court with legal jurisdiction (i.e., pursuant to a warrant). A copy of the data will be provided to the custodial entity upon request. General data that does not identify particular vehicles or crashes may be released for incorporation in aggregate crash databases, such as those maintained by the U.S. government and various states. Data of a potentially sensitive nature, such as would identify a particular driver, vehicle, or crash, will be treated confidentially. Confidential data will not be disclosed by Chrysler Group LLC to any third party except when: 1. Used for research purposes, such as to match data with a particular crash record in an aggregate database, provided confidentiality of personal data is thereafter preserved.

2. Used in defense of litigation involving a Chrysler Group LLC product.

3. Requested by police under a legal warrant.

4. Otherwise required by law.

Data parameters that are recorded: • Diagnostic trouble code(s) and warning light status for electronically-controlled safety systems, including the airbag system.

• Vehicle speed.

• Engine RPM.

• Brake switch status.

• Pedal position.

• And other parameters depending on vehicle configuration.

Child Restraints

Everyone in your vehicle needs to be buckled up all the time, including babies and children. Every state in the United States and all Canadian provinces require that small children ride in proper restraint systems. This is the law, and you can be prosecuted for ignoring it.

Children 12 years and younger should ride properly buckled up in a rear seat, if available. According to crash statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seats rather than in the front.

WARNING:
In a collision, an unrestrained child, even a tiny baby, can become a projectile inside the vehicle. The force required to hold even an infant on your lap could become so great that you could not hold the child, no matter how strong you are. The child and others could be badly injured. Any child riding in your vehicle should be in a proper restraint for the child’s size.

There are different sizes and types of restraints for children from newborn size to the child almost large enough for an adult safety belt. Always check the child seat Owner’s Manual to ensure you have the correct seat for your child. Use the restraint that is correct for your child.

Infants and Child Restraints

• Safety experts recommend that children ride rearward-facing in the vehicle until they are at least one year old and weigh at least 20 lbs (9 kg). Two types of child restraints can be used rearward-facing, infant carriers and convertible child seats.

• The infant carrier is only used rearward-facing in the vehicle. It is recommended for children who weigh up to about 20 lbs (9 kg). Convertible child seats can be used either rearward-facing or forward-facing in the vehicle. Convertible child seats often have a higher weight limit in the rearward-facing direction than infant carriers do, so they can be used rearward-facing by children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) but are less than one year old. Both types of child restraints are held in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt or the LATCH child restraint anchor system. Refer to “LATCH — Child Seat Anchor System (Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren)”.

• Rearward-facing child seats must NEVER be used in the front seat of a vehicle with the front passenger airbag unless the airbag is turned off. An airbag deployment could cause severe injury or death to infants in this position.

Older Children and Child Restraints

Children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) and who are older than one year can ride forward-facing in the vehicle. Forward-facing child seats and convertible child seats used in the forward-facing direction are for children who weigh 20 to 40 lbs (9 to 18 kg) and who are older than one year. These child seats are also held in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt or the LATCH child restraint anchorage system. Refer to “LATCH — Child Seat Anchorage System (Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren)”.

The belt-positioning booster seat is for children weighing more than 40 lbs (18 kg), but who are still too small to fit the vehicle’s seat belts properly. If the child cannot sit with knees bent over the vehicle’s seat cushion while the child’s back is against the seatback, they should use a belt-positioning booster seat. The child and beltpositioning booster seat are held in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt.

Integrated Child Booster Seat — If Equipped

The Integrated Child Booster Seat is located in each outboard second-row passenger seat. The Booster Seat is designed for children weighing between 48 and 85 lbs (22 and 39 kg) and between 47 in (119 cm) and 57 in (145 cm) tall.

To position a child into the Integrated Child Booster Seat follow these steps:
1. Slide the second row seat to the full rear position to use the Integrated Child Booster Seat.

NOTE: The second row bench with Integrated Child Booster Seat must remain in the full rear position during use.

2. Pull the release loop forward to release the latch and seat cushion.

Release Loop
Release Loop

3. Lift the seat cushion up and push back to lock it in the booster seat position.

Booster Seat
Booster Seat

4. Place the child upright in the seat with their back firmly against the seatback.

5. Grasp the latch plate and pull out the seat belt.

6. Slide the latch plate up the webbing as far as necessary to allow the seat belt to go around the child’s lap.

NOTE: The lap portion of the seat belt should be low on the hips and as snug as possible.

7. Once the seat belt is long enough to fit properly, insert the latch plate into the buckle until you hear a “click.”

8. To remove the slack from the lap belt, pull upward on


8. To remove the slack from the lap belt, pull upward on the shoulder portion of the seat belt.

9. To release the seat belt, push the red button on the buckle.

WARNING:
Be certain that the seat cushion is locked securely into position before using the seat. Otherwise, the seat will not provide the proper stability for child seats and/or passengers. An improperly latched seat cushion could cause serious injury.

Children too Large for Booster Seats

Children who are large enough to wear the shoulder belt comfortably and whose legs are long enough to bend over the front of the seat when their back is against the seatback should use the lap/shoulder belt in a rear seat.

• Make sure that the child is upright in the seat.

• The lap portion should be low on the hips and as snug as possible.

• Check belt fit periodically. A child’s squirming or slouching can move the belt out of position.

• If the shoulder belt contacts the face or neck, move the child closer to the center of the vehicle. Never allow a child to put the shoulder belt under an arm or behind their back.

NOTE: For additional information, refer to www.seatcheck.org or call 1–866–SEATCHECK. Canadian residents, should refer to Transport Canada’s website for additional information. http://www.tc.gc.ca/ roadsafety/safedrivers/childsafety/index.htm

WARNING:
• Improper installation can lead to failure of an infant or child restraint. It could come loose in a collision. The child could be badly injured or killed. Follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly when installing an infant or child restraint.

• A rearward-facing child restraint should only be used in a rear seat. A rearward-facing child restraint in the front seat may be struck by a deploying passenger airbag, which may cause severe or fatal injury to the infant.

Here are some tips on getting the most out of your child restraint:

• Before buying any restraint system, make sure that it has a label certifying that it meets all applicable Safety Standards. We also recommend that you make sure that you can install the child restraint in the vehicle where you will use it before you buy it.

• The restraint must be appropriate for your child’s weight and height. Check the label on the restraint for weight and height limits.

• Carefully follow the instructions that come with the restraint. If you install the restraint improperly, it may not work when you need it.

• Buckle the child into the seat according to the child restraint manufacturer’s directions.

• When your child restraint is not in use, secure it in the vehicle with the seat belt or remove it from the vehicle.

Do not leave it loose in the vehicle. In a sudden stop or collision, it could strike the occupants or seatbacks and cause serious personal injury.

LATCH — Child Seat Anchor System (Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren)

Your vehicle’s second row passenger seats are equipped with the child restraint anchor system called LATCH. The LATCH system provides for the installation of the child restraint without using the vehicle’s seat belts, instead securing the child restraint using lower anchors and upper tether straps from the child restraint to the vehicle structure.

LATCH-compatible child restraint systems are now available.

However, because the lower anchors are to be introduced over a period of years, child restraint systems having attachments for those anchors will continue to have features for installation using the vehicle’s seat belts. Child restraints having tether straps and hooks for connection to the top tether anchors have been available for some time. For some older child restraints, many child restraint manufacturers offer add-on tether strap kits or retrofit kits. You are urged to take advantage of all the available attachments provided with your child restraint in any vehicle.

All three second-row passenger seating positions have lower anchors that are capable of accommodating LATCH-compatible child seats. You should NEVER install LATCH-compatible child seats so that two seats share a common lower anchorage. If installing child seats in adjacent seating positions, or if your child restraints are not LATCH-compatible, install the restraints using the vehicle’s seat belts.

Latch Anchorages
Latch Anchorages

1 — Outer 60% Seating Position. Use Lower Anchor Loops A and B. If placing a second
child seat in the vehicle, use the Outer 40% Seating Position and Lower Anchor Loops D and E. DO NOT USE Middle 60% Seating Position and Lower Anchorage Loops B and C.

2 — Middle 60% Seating Position. Use Lower Anchor Loops B and C. If placing a second
child seat in the vehicle, use the Outer 40% Seating Position and Lower Anchor Loops D and E. DO NOT USE Outer 60% Seating Position and Lower Anchor Loops A and B.

3 — Outer 40% Seating Position. Use Lower Anchor Loops D and E. If placing a second
child seat in the vehicle, use Outer 60% Seating Position and Lower Anchor Loops A and B or Middle 60% Seating Position and Lower Anchor Loops B and C.

Installing the LATCH-Compatible Child Restraint System

We urge you to follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully when installing your child restraint. Not all child restraint systems will be installed as described here.

Again, carefully follow the installation instructions that are provided with the child restraint system.

NOTE: When installing a child restraint, if it interferes with the Head Restraint, recline the seatback slightly to remove the interference.

located at theThe lower anchors are round bars
located at the
rear of the seat cushion where it meets the seatback and are just visible when you lean into the rear seat to install the child restraint.

You will easily feel them if you run your finger along the intersection of the seatback and seat cushion surfaces.

In addition, there are tether strap anchors located behind each rear seatback, near to the floor.

Tether Strap Anchors
Tether Strap Anchors

Many, but not all restraint systems will be equipped with separate straps on each side, with each having a hook or connector for attachment to the lower anchor and a means of adjusting the tension in the strap. Forwardfacing toddler restraints and some rear-facing infant restraints will also be equipped with a tether strap, a hook for attachment to the tether strap anchor and a means of adjusting the tension of the strap.

You will first loosen the adjusters on the lower straps and on the tether strap so that you can more easily attach the hooks or connectors to the vehicle anchors. Next, attach the lower hooks or connectors over the top of the seatcover material. Then attach the tether strap to the anchor directly behind the seat where you are placing the child restraint, being careful to route the tether strap to provide the most direct path between the anchor and the child restraint, preferably between the head restraint posts underneath the head restraint. Finally, tighten all three straps as you push the child restraint rearward and downward into the seat, removing slack in the straps according to the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions.

NOTE:
• Ensure that the tether strap does not slip into the opening between the seatbacks as you remove slack in the strap.

• When using the LATCH attaching system to install a child restraint, please ensure that all seat belts not being used for occupant restraints are stowed and out of reach of children. It is recommended that before installing the child restraint, buckle the seat belt so the seat belt is tucked behind the child restraint. This should stow the seat belt out of the reach of an inquisitive child. Remind all children in the vehicle that the seat belts are not toys and that they should not play with them. In addition, never leave unattended children in the vehicle.

WARNING:
Improper installation of a child restraint to the LATCH anchorages can lead to failure of an infant or child restraint. The child could be badly injured or killed. Follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly when installing an infant or child restraint.

Installing Child Restraints Using the Vehicle Seat Belt

The seat belts in the passenger seating positions are equipped with either an Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) or a cinching latch plate or both. Both types of seat belts are designed to keep the lap portion of the seat belt tight around the child restraint so that it is not necessary to use a locking clip. The ALR will make a ratcheting noise if you extract the entire belt from the retractor and then allow the belt to retract into the retractor. For additional information on ALR, refer to “Automatic Locking Mode”.

To install a child restraint, first, pull enough of the seat belt webbing from the retractor to route it through the belt path of the child restraint and slide the latch plate into the buckle. Next, extract all the seat belt webbing out of the retractor and then allow the belt to retract into the retractor. Finally, pull on any excess webbing to tighten the lap portion around the child restraint. Any seat belt system will loosen with time, so check the belt occasionally, and pull it tight if necessary.

NOTE: When installing a child restraint, if it interferes with the Head Restraint, recline the seatback slightly to remove the interference.

To attach a child restraint tether strap: • Route the tether strap to provide the most direct path for the strap between the anchor and the child seat, preferably between the head restraint posts underneath the head restraint.

Tether Strap Mounting
Tether Strap Mounting

• If necessary, move the seat forward to provide better access to the tether anchor.

Seat Track Release Lever
Seat Track Release Lever

• Attach the tether strap hook of the child restraint to the tether anchor and remove slack in the tether strap according to the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions.

NOTE: Ensure that the tether strap does not slip into the opening between the seatbacks as you remove slack in the strap.

WARNING:
An incorrectly anchored tether strap could lead to increased head motion and possible injury to the child. Use only the anchor positions directly behind the child seat to secure a child restraint top tether strap.

Transporting Pets

Airbags deploying in the front seat could harm your pet.

An unrestrained pet will be thrown about and possibly injured, or injure a passenger during panic braking or in a collision.

Pets should be restrained in the rear seat in pet harnesses or pet carriers that are secured by seat belts.

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