2002 Mercury Sable Owner Guide 4th Printing - Page 119

Seating and Safety Restraints A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following: • The readiness light (same light for front and side air bag system) will either flash or stay lit. • The readiness light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is turned on. • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat periodically until the problem and/or light are repaired. If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the supplemental restraint system serviced at your dealership or by a qualified technician immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision. Side air bag system (if equipped) Do not place objects or mount equipment on or near the air bag cover on the side of the seatbacks of the front seats or in front seat areas that may come into contact with a deploying air bag. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of personal injury in the event of a collision. Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident. Do not lean your head on the door. The side air bag could injure you as it deploys from the side of the seatback. Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air bag supplemental restraint system, its fuses or the seat cover on a seat containing an air bag. See your Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer. All occupants of the vehicle including the driver should always wear their safety belts even when an air bag SRS is provided. 119