1996 Ford F150 Owner's Manual - Page 29

The air bag system uses a readiness light and a tone to indicate the condition of the system. The readiness light is in the instrument cluster. When you turn the ignition to the ON position, this light will illuminate for approximately six (6) seconds and then turn off. This indicates that the system is operating normally. NOTE: Maintenance of the air bag system is not required. A problem with the system is indicated by one or more of the following: the readiness light will either flash or stay lit, or it will not light, or a group of five beeps will be heard. RWARNING If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the air bag system serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately. Tone generator The air bag readiness light indicates the air bag system condition. However, a series of five sets of five beeps will be heard only if the readiness light does not work and there is a problem with the air bag system. This also means that the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) is in need of service. The tone pattern will repeat (five sets of five beeps) periodically until the problem and light are repaired. Unless serviced, the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System may not function properly in the event of a collision. RWARNING Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System or its fuses. See your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. 26