Subaru Forester: Occupant Detection System (ODS) / Main components of the Occupant Detection System (ODS)

• A passenger detection sensor is built into the front passenger seat cushion.

• An electronic control unit evaluates occupant information and determines whether the front passenger air bag should be activated or deactivated.

• The overhead console displays the PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF () indicator whenever the front passenger air bag has been switched off by the system.

• The overhead console air bag warning indicator communicates directly with the Occupant Detection System to provide the appropriate status information.

If the front passenger seat is occupied by someone who is not recognized as a properly seated adult—such as a passenger who is sitting improperly, leaning excessively, or otherwise outside the expected seating position—the PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF () indicator will illuminate. In this situation, the front passenger air bag may remain deactivated during a frontal collision.

The PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF () indicator is located in the overhead console. The Occupant Detection System evaluates the seating conditions described in the accompanying table and automatically activates or deactivates the front passenger air bag based on those detected conditions.

For the highest level of protection in your Kia Telluride, every occupant should remain seated correctly at all times. Sit upright with the seatback in a nearly vertical position, stay centered on the seat cushion, keep both feet on the floor whenever possible, and wear the seat belt properly fastened. Correct seating posture allows both the seat belt and the air bag system to perform as intended.

The Occupant Detection System may not function as intended if the passenger's seating position interferes with the system's ability to accurately detect the occupant. Situations that may affect system operation include:

• Not sitting in a normal upright seating position.

• Leaning against the door panel or the center console for extended periods.

• Sitting too close to the edge or side of the seat instead of remaining centered on the cushion.

• Resting the legs on the instrument panel or positioning them in a way that significantly reduces the passenger's weight on the seat cushion.

• Wearing the seat belt incorrectly or failing to fasten it properly.

• Reclining the seatback excessively while seated in the front passenger seat.