Supplemental restraint system

nounStandard termAutomotive

The network of vehicle safety devices designed to operate alongside seatbelts during a crash.

A comprehensive safety network in a vehicle designed to protect occupants during a collision, working in tandem with the primary restraint system (seatbelts). The system typically includes airbags, crash sensors, seatbelt pretensioners, and an electronic control module that determines exactly when to deploy these devices based on impact severity.

Heard on the job

The dash is showing an SRS light, meaning the supplemental restraint system is disabled and the airbags won't deploy in a crash.

Insider tip

Never probe SRS wiring harness connectors with a standard multimeter, as the tiny electrical current can accidentally deploy the airbags. SRS wiring is almost always encased in bright yellow loom to warn technicians.