Service Precautions

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1996 Mazda Protege. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Following 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 .
Because of critical system operating requirements, DO NOT service any air bag system component or wiring harness. Corrections are made by replacement only.
DO NOT use an ohmmeter to check resistance of air bag module, as it may cause air bag deployment.
When carrying a live (undeployed) module, ensure trim cover is pointed away from your body. This minimizes chance of injury in event of accidental air bag deployment.
When placing a live air bag module on any surface, always face trim cover upward to reduce motion of module if it is accidentally deployed.
SAS unit must always be installed with arrow facing the front of the vehicle.
Air bag system clockspring MUST be aligned in neutral position, since its rotation ability is limited. DO NOT turn steering wheel or column after removal of steering gear.
A double-lock mechanism is used on clockspring connectors. DO NOT use excessive force when disconnecting connectors, as damage to connector may occur.