Service Precautions

These precautions should be observed when working with air bag systems:

• Disable air bag system before servicing any air bag system or steering column component. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• When trouble shooting Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), always check diagnostic codes before disconnecting battery.
• After turning ignition switch to LOCK position and disconnecting negative battery cable, wait at least 30 seconds before working on SRS. SRS is equipped with a back-up power source that may allow air bag to deploy up to 30 seconds after negative battery cable is disconnected.
• During servicing of air bag module, store where ambient temperature is less than 200°F (93°C), without high humidity and away from electrical noise.
• When placing a live air bag on a bench or other surface, ensure pad top surface is facing up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of module if it is accidentally deployed.
• Use a volt-ohmmeter with high impedance (10 k/ohm minimum) for trouble shooting electrical circuits.
• If electric welding is necessary to repair vehicle, disconnect Red 2-pin air bag connector located under steering column near multifunction switch connector before starting work.
• Because of critical operating requirements of system, DO NOT attempt to service air bag module, clockspring, wiring harness or SRS Control Module (SRSCM). Corrections are made by replacement with new parts only. NEVER use parts from another vehicle.
• If air bag module or SRSCM have been dropped, or there are cracks, dents or other defects visible, replace with new parts.
• DO NOT attempt to measure resistance across air bag module squib connector. Accidental air bag deployment is possible which could cause personal injury.
• After deployment, air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, which irritates skin, from gas generant combustion. Always wear safety glasses, rubber gloves and long-sleeved shirt during clean-up, and wash hands using mild soap and water.
• After deployment of an air bag, replace clockspring with a new one.
• After work is complete on SRS, ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .