Automotive Safety
This domain covers active and passive vehicle safety, ABS, ESC, airbags, seatbelts, SRS service, high-voltage safety and workshop safety. The exam tests safe procedures as well as system function.
Core rules
Active safety helps prevent a crash: brakes, steering, tyres, ESC and ABS. Passive safety protects occupants during a crash: seatbelts, pretensioners, airbags, crumple zones and head restraints. The SRS is a pyrotechnic system; always disconnect the battery and wait the specified time before working near airbags. Never probe an airbag circuit with an ohmmeter, because the meter's current can deploy it. High-voltage systems use orange cables; isolate and verify dead before work. Use jack stands, wheel chocks and correct lifting points.
Worked example
An airbag circuit is specified at 2 ohm. A technician proposes using a multimeter's resistance mode to check it. This is unsafe: the meter sends a small current through the circuit, which can trigger the squib. The correct method is to use the manufacturer's scan tool and follow the service procedure, after disconnecting the battery and waiting the specified capacitor discharge time. If the connector is damaged, replace it rather than repair the airbag wiring.
Traps
Forgetting the clock spring when replacing a steering wheel; leaving the battery connected while removing a seat with a side airbag; assuming a deployed airbag means the module needs no inspection; and working under a vehicle supported only by a jack. High-voltage gloves must be inspected before use.