Service Precautions

Observe these precautions when working with air bag system:

• Disable air bag system before servicing any air bag system or steering column component. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM  .
• WAIT at least ONE MINUTE after disconnecting battery before servicing vehicle. Air bag system activation voltage is maintained for about ONE MINUTE after battery is disconnected. Failure to wait at least ONE MINUTE before servicing system may cause accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury.
• Because of critical system operating requirements, DO NOT service or repair any air bag system component or wiring harness. Corrections are made by component replacement only.
• DO NOT allow water, oil or grease to contact air bag system components.
• DO NOT repaint air bag module trim.
• DO NOT use an ohmmeter or powered circuit tester to check resistance of air bag module, as it may cause air bag deployment.
• After deployment, air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, which can irritate skin. Always wear safety glasses, rubber gloves and long-sleeved shirt during clean-up, and wash hands using mild soap and water. Follow correct disposal procedures.
• When carrying a live (undeployed) module, ensure trim cover is pointed away from body. This minimizes chance of injury in event of accidental air bag deployment.
• When placing a live air bag module on a bench or other flat surface, always face trim cover up to reduce motion of module if it is accidentally deployed.
• 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.
• DO NOT install components previously installed on another vehicle. Only use NEW components supplied by manufacturer.
• DO NOT store air bag modules where they will be exposed to temperatures greater than 199°F (93°C), high humidity or electrical noise.
• Information labels are attached to air bag components. Follow all notices on labels.
• After servicing SRS, check air bag indicator light to ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK  .
• Always wear safety glasses when servicing or handling air bags or seat belt pretensioners.
• 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. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK  .