OEM Linking Pin: Honda/Acura SRS Live Data Clarification

As part of the I-CAR Repairability Technical Support (RTS) OEM linking pin activity, we are helping to connect the collision repair industry to the vehicle makers. Recently we’ve received an inquiry asking for clarification on why a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) did not show up on a scan with a deployed airbag. We reached out to Honda/Acura for clarification.

Per our contact at Honda/Acura: "When repairing a Honda/Acura Vehicle after a supplemental restraints systems (SRS) deployment you should always refer to the Service Information for the list of components that require replacement and inspection. The document called SRS Component Replacement/Inspection will list all parts requiring replacement or inspection. For example: After a collision where the driver’s air bag deployed, you must replace the deployed air bag and SRS unit. You may also be required to replace the front seat belt(s) and front impact sensors. Always check vehicle-specific information for details."

"Unfortunately, the repair process is not always that simple because the deployed components are sometimes not obvious. Seat belt pre-tensioners and seat belt buckle tensioners are a good example of that. If you are working on a pre-2013 Honda/Acura the pre-scan DTC check will help you identify components requiring replacement as deployment triggers individual DTCs to set."

Our contact went on to state: "In 2013 Honda/Acura switched to SAE SRS DTC standard and things got even more complicated. In this new standard, there are no SRS Deployment DTCs. To check for deployment (or deployed components) you must use your scan tool and go to SRS Data List. If any of the SRS components have deployed, you will see ON in the signal column and a Red dot next to it. See Figure 1."

Figure 1

In conclusion, our contact stated: "This is another example of how a complete pre-scan (DTC and Data List) can help you identify all the damaged during damage discovery."

"So, remember before replacing any of the SRS parts, especially the SRS Control Unit you need to look at the live data using a scan tool to ensure all deployed components are identified. If the SRS Control Unit is replaced before the scan is performed, the list of deployed items may not be found. The deployment history was in the original control unit and new DTCs will not be set by the system. Troubleshooting a vehicle with a SRS indicator light on with no DTCs and no deployment history can become time-consuming."

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:

• Collision Information Website Access: Honda/Acura
• How Does the I-CAR OEM Linking Pin Process Work?

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