OEM 2001 Ford Escape Seat Switch

2001 Ford Escape Seat Switch Parts Q&A

• Q: What safety precautions should be taken when servicing the power seat switch with an air bag supplemental restraint system on 2001 Ford Escape?

  A: Safety glasses must be worn during power seat switch service to protect from injuries when servicing a vehicle that utilizes an air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS). You should handle live side air bag modules by keeping their tear seam and air bag facing away from your body and avoid putting them down on the cover seam at any time. Hand washing with soap and water can eliminate bothersome skin irritation from sodium hydroxide after the deployment occurs. Never probe the connectors which exist on the air bag module because this could lead to accidental deployment of the device. Vehicle sensor orientation should be checked after a collision to ensure safe functioning and the analysis of sensor mounting brackets and wiring pigtail for damage might necessitate the replacement of any damaged SRS components. The back up power supply needs depletion through removal of the battery ground cable for one minute additional battery disconnection when auxiliary batteries are present. The first step to repair a seat equipped with seat-mounted side air bags requires users to turn off the air bag system. Service or diagnostic work on the side air bag system or safety belt pretensioner must be done by removing the seat from the vehicle while using the restraint system diagnostic tool at the floor connector of the side air bag. Diagnostics for other seat systems become possible through their installed position as long as the tool remains underneath the seat at the air bag to floor connector. The diagnostic process requires part replacement but still needs the original component reinstallation followed by another diagnostic attempt. The replacement of seatback pad, trim cover, side air bag module requires a new seatback frame if necessary after side air bag deployment. Start by disconnecting the battery ground cable then proceed to remove the seat control switch knob, front seat cushion side shield and seat backrest handle and screws with shields and finally disconnect the electrical connector to remove the seat control switch. The procedure for installation follows the steps of installation in reverse order.