Service Precautions

Observe these precautions when working with air bag systems:

• Disable SRS before servicing any SRS or steering column component. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• Wait at least 3 MINUTES after disabling SRS before servicing vehicle. SRS voltage is maintained for at least 3 minutes after system is disabled. Servicing system before 3-minute period may cause accidental SRS deployment and possible personal injury.
• Air bag will operate only when ignition switch is in ON or START position. Ignition switch should be in OFF position when working under hood or inside vehicle.
• When servicing vehicle, SRS and related parts should be pointed away from technician.
• DO NOT  use a circuit tester to check air bag harness connectors. SRS wiring harness and connectors have Yellow insulation for easy identification. Keep all ground points clean.
• Impact sensor(s), safing sensor and tunnel sensor must be installed with arrow marks facing front of vehicle. Also, check sensors for cracks, defects and rust before installation. Replace sensors as necessary.
• If steering gear is removed, DO NOT  turn steering wheel or column shaft. Rotation of SRS spiral cable under steering wheel air bag module is limited. SRS spiral cable must be aligned in neutral position (centered).
• On vehicles equipped with passenger-side air bag module ON/OFF switch, ensure ON/OFF switch is in the same position as when vehicle was brought in for service.
• Handle air bag modules carefully. Always place air bag modules with pad facing upward. DO NOT  disassemble air bag module.
• If accidentally deployed, rubber cap on seat belt pretensioner will be blown out of cylinder tip by high temperature gases. When laying aside seat belt pretensioner, ensure cylinder tip points away from people (place pretensioners in a box if possible).
• After servicing, perform SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
• DO NOT  expose air bag module to temperatures exceeding 194°F (90°C). DO NOT  allow oil, grease or water to contact module.
• If vehicle is damaged in a collision, check impact sensor, tunnel and safing sensors and related wiring harnesses.
• Before discarding an air bag module or seat belt pretensioner (including scrapping a vehicle with air bag system), always deploy air bag(s) and seat belt pretensioners.
• Replace used mounting bolts with NEW mounting bolts.