Service Precautions

Observe the following precautions when servicing SRS:

• Disable SRS before servicing any SRS or steering column component. Failure to do this could result in accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• Malfunction symptoms of the SRS are difficult to confirm, so Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) become the most important source of information when troubleshooting. When troubleshooting the SRS, always check for and record DTCs before disconnecting battery.
• After turning ignition switch to LOCK position, disconnect negative battery cable. Turn headlight switch on, and wait at least 10 minutes before servicing vehicle. SRS is equipped with a back-up power source that may allow air bag to deploy within 10 minutes after disconnecting negative battery cable.
• If any component of SRS has been dropped, or if there are cracks, dents or other defects in the case, bracket or connector, replace them with new components.
• NEVER use air bag components from another vehicle. Replace air bag components with NEW components.
• DO NOT probe air bag module connector with ohmmeter. Ohmmeter current can cause air bag to deploy.
• Never disassemble or repair system components. Replace cracked, dented or otherwise damaged system components.
• DO NOT expose air bag components to heat or flame, high humidity or electrical noise. DO NOT expose air bag modules to heat exceeding 200°F (93°C).
• After servicing SRS, check air bag warning light to ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
• Always wear safety glasses when servicing or handling an air bag module.
• When placing a live air bag on a bench or other flat surface, always face air bag trim cover up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of module if it is accidentally deployed.
• After deployment, air bag surface may contain chemical deposits which irritate the skin. Always wear safety glasses, rubber gloves and long-sleeved shirt during clean-up. After clean-up, wash hands using mild soap and water. Flush eyes with water if exposed to by products.
• After deployment, air bag modules are very hot. WAIT at least 30 minutes for components to cool. Do not put water or oil on the airbag after deployment.
• Disconnect negative battery cable BEFORE welding body components.
• Before removing steering gearbox, center front wheels and remove ignition key. This will prevent damage to SRS clockspring at the top of the steering column.
• When carrying a live air bag module, trim cover must be pointed away from body to minimize injury in case of accidental air bag deployment. In case of accidental deployment, such items may cause serious injury or death. Damaged airbag modules should be stored away from all acids, halogens, heavy metals and metal salts. Damaged units may produce hydrozoic acid if exposed to liquids. Undeployed modules exposure to high concentrations of propellant mixture can cause headaches, nausea, blurred vision, faintness, cyanosis, lowering of blood pressure or tachycardia. Failure to comply with this warning can result in fire, noxious fumes, severe personal injury or death.
• 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.