1997 Chevrolet Astro Owner's Manual - Page 135

Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light onthe instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag's electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. Thesystem check includes the air bag sensors, the air bag modules, the wiring and the crash sensingand diagnostic module. For more information on the air bag system, see "Air Bag" in the Index. This light will come on when you start your engine, and it will flash for a few seconds. Then the light should go out. This means the system is ready. light doesn't come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. Charging System Indicator Light The charglngsystem light will come on briefly when you turn the ignition on, but the engine is not running, as a check to show you the light is working. AIR BAG on If the air bag readiness light stays after you start the engine or comes on when you are driving,your air bag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away. Then it should go out once the engineis running. If it stays on, orcomes on while you are driving,you may have a problem with the electrical charging system. It could indicate thatyou have a looseaccessory drive belt, or another electrical problem. Have it checked right away. Driving whilethis light is on could drain your battery. The air bag readiness light should flash forfew a seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the If you must drive ashort distance with the light on, be certain to turn off all your accessories, such as the radio and heatedair conditioner.