* Check the Passenger-Side Occupancy Sensor: The system relies on a sensor to detect whether a passenger is present. This sensor is usually located in the passenger seat. It could be faulty, preventing the system from turning the airbag on.
* Check the Airbag Light: The fact that the "Off" light briefly comes on at startup indicates the system is at least *partially* functioning and doing a self-check. However, the constant absence of the "On" indicator light is the main concern. A consistently illuminated airbag light (steady or flashing) points to a fault in the system that requires professional attention.
* Look for a Passenger Airbag On/Off Switch: Many vehicles, especially from that era, had a switch (often near the glove box or console) to manually disable the passenger airbag. Make sure this switch isn't accidentally turned off. The position of the switch should be clearly indicated.
* Check the Fuse: A blown fuse can prevent the airbag system from operating correctly. Consult your owner's manual to locate the appropriate fuse for the airbag system and check its condition.
* Professional Diagnosis: If none of the above reveals the issue, your best bet is to take your truck to a qualified mechanic or Ford dealership. They have diagnostic tools that can scan the airbag system's computer for trouble codes. This is crucial because there might be an internal fault not readily apparent.
Safety Warning: Driving with a potentially malfunctioning passenger airbag system is risky. If you're unsure about its status, it's safer to assume it's deactivated and take precautions, such as ensuring passengers are properly restrained with seatbelts. A professional diagnosis is highly recommended.
