Interpretation ID: aiam3383
Senior Technical Manager
MMC Services Inc.
3000 Town Center
Suite 1960
Southfield
MI 48075;
Dear Mr. Shimada: This responds to your letter of October 14, 1980, regarding the warnin devices required by Safety Standard No. 114, *Theft Protection*, and Safety Standard No. 208, *Occupant Crash Protection*. You ask whether the sound of a voice repeating the phrase 'please pull out the ignition key' or 'please fasten seat belt' at 2-3 second intervals could be used to satisfy the requirements of Standard No. 114 and Standard No. 208. You also ask whether a buzzer or chime that signals an unfastened seat belt or the presence of the key in the ignition could also be used to give the driver other warnings, such as turning off the headlights.; Standard No. 114 does not specify the nature of the warning that mus be given to the driver in the event that the ignition key is left in the locking system. Thus the system you describe would comply with the rule. Note that the signal must be activated whenever the key has been left in the ignition and the driver's door is opened.; Standard No. 208 requires that the driver's seating position b equipped with a warning system that activates a continuous or intermittent audible signal for a period of not less than four (4) seconds and not more than eight (8) seconds. The signal must begin when the vehicle's ignition switch is in the 'on' or 'start' position and the driver's belt is not in use. If the system you have devised stops the warning only when the belt has been fastened, it would not comply with this rule. The signal must end within eight (8) seconds, irregardless of whether the driver's belt has been fastened. Regarding your specific question, an audible 'voice' signal would be permitted under the standard.; The buzzers or chimes that are installed in accordance with Standar No. 214 (sic) or Standard No. 208 may also be used to warn the driver of other conditions.; We hope you find this information helpful. Please contact this offic if you have any other questions.; Sincerely, Frank Berndt, Chief Counsel