Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Service Precautions
Observe the following precautions when servicing air bag system:
- Before servicing any air bag system or steering column component, disable air bag system. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
- After disabling the air bag system, wait at least ONE MINUTE before servicing vehicle. Air bag system voltage is maintained for about ONE MINUTE after system is disabled. Failure to wait specified amount of time before servicing system may cause accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury.
- Because of critical operating requirements of system, DO NOT service or disassemble any air bag component. Correction is made by replacement only.
- DO NOT allow grease, oil, cleaning solutions, or similar products to come in contact with air bags.
- DO NOT subject air bags to temperatures greater than 194°F (90°C).
- Replace air bag modules, crash sensors, and air bag control units that have fallen from a height of 20 inches or more.
- DO NOT install additional trim, labels or stickers on steering wheel, or in area of passenger's side air bag.
- DO NOT repair or modify air bag system wiring. Replace wiring harness if damaged.
- Disable air bag system before electric-welding vehicle.
- DO NOT route wires from other electrical equipment in the vicinity of air bag wire harness.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling deployed air bags.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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