Service Precautions

Observe following precautions when working with air bag system:

• Disable SRS before servicing any SRS or steering column component. Failure to disable system could result in accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• Wait at least 20 seconds after disconnecting battery cable before servicing SRS. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Back-up power supply maintains SRS power for a few seconds after battery is disconnected. Servicing SRS before 20 seconds have elapsed may cause accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury.
• Whenever possible when working near, removing, or installing an undeployed air bag module, DO NOT position yourself directly in front of air bag.
• In a minor collision in which air bag does not deploy, front air bag impact sensors and steering wheel pad should be inspected.
• DO NOT use air bag parts from another vehicle. Replace air bag parts with new parts.
• Remove front impact sensors if shocks are likely to be applied to sensors during repairs.
• DO NOT repair damage or opens found in SRS harnesses. Manufacturer recommends replacement of any defective SRS harness with a new part.
• DO NOT disassemble and attempt repair of front impact sensors or steering wheel pad.
• If front impact sensors, control unit, or steering wheel pad is dropped, or if there are cracks, dents, or other defects in the case or connector, replace parts with new ones.
• DO NOT expose front impact sensors, control unit, or steering wheel pad to temperatures greater than 194°F (90°C).
• DO NOT apply tester probes directly to any SRS harness connector terminal. Use specified test harness during circuit testing.
• Information labels are attached to air bag components. Follow all notices on labels.
• After work on SRS is completed, verify system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
• Always wear safety glasses when servicing or handling an air bag.
• DO NOT check for air bag module continuity with air bag removed from vehicle.
• When placing a live air bag on a bench or other surface, always face air bag and trim cover up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of module if it is accidentally deployed.
• After deployment, air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, which irritates skin. Always wear safety glasses, rubber gloves, and long sleeves shirt during cleanup. Wash hands with mild soap and water.
• When carrying a live air bag module, point trim cover away from your body to minimize injury in case of deployment.
• If SRS is not fully functional for any reason, vehicle should not be driven until system is repaired and again becomes operational. DO NOT remove bulbs, modules, sensors, or other components or in any way disable system from operating normally. If SRS is not functional, park vehicle until it is repaired and functions properly.