Service Precautions

Observe these precautions when working with air bag systems:

• 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 .
• After an accident, all SRS components, including harness and brackets, must be inspected. If any components are damaged or bent, they must be replaced, even if a deployment did not occur. Check steering column, knee bolster, instrument panel steering column reinforcement plate and lower brace for damage. DO NOT service any component or wiring. If components or wiring are damaged or defective, replacement is necessary. DO NOT use components from another vehicle. Only use new replacement parts.
• After repairs, turn ignition on while ensuring any accidental air bag deployment will not cause injury. Ensure SRS indicator light is working properly and no system faults are indicated. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
• Always wear safety glasses when servicing or handling an air bag.
• Air bag module must be stored in its original special container until used for service. It must be stored in a clean, dry place, away from sources of extreme heat, sparks and high electrical energy.
• When placing a live air bag module on a bench or other surface, always face air bag and trim cover up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of module if it is accidentally deployed.
• 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.
• NEVER allow any electrical source near inflator on back of air bag module.
• When carrying a live air bag module, trim cover should be pointed away from your body to minimize injury in case of deployment.
• DO NOT probe a wire through insulator; this will damage wire and eventually cause failure due to corrosion.
• When performing electrical tests, always use SRS test harnesses recommended by manufacturer. DO NOT use test probes directly on component connector pins or wires.
• When installing SRS wiring harnesses, ensure they will not be pinched or interfere with other vehicle components.
• Inspect all around connections. Ensure they are clean and tight.
• DO NOT use any type of electrical equipment not specified by manufacturer.
• If SRS is not fully functional for any reason, vehicle should not be driven until system is repaired. DO NOT remove any component or in any way disable system from operating normally. If SRS is not functional, park vehicle until repairs can be made.