Service Precautions

1999 Mazda Protege ES, AutomaticSECTION Service Precautions

Observe the following precautions when servicing SRS:

  • Disable air bag system before servicing any air bag or steering column component. Failure to disable air bag could result in accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEMΒ .
  • After turning ignition switch to LOCK position and removing AIR BAG or AIR BAG-IG fuse, wait at least 10 SECONDS before working on vehicle. Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) maintains a reserve voltage for up to 10 seconds.
  • Always wear safety glasses when servicing or handling an air bag.
  • Handle air bag module(s) carefully. Always place air bag module(s) with pad facing upward. DO NOT disassemble air bag module.
  • If the air bag system and another vehicle system both need repair, the air bag system must be repaired first to avoid unintended air bag deployment.
  • DO NOT modify steering wheel, dashboard, or any other air bag system component. Modifications can adversely affect air bag system performance and lead to personal injury.
  • Never use air bag parts from another vehicle. Replace air bag parts with new parts.
  • Remove air bag modules and SDM if repairing the vehicle requires exposing the vehicle to temperatures over 200Β°F (93Β°C). Never expose air bag system components directly to hot air or flames.
  • Remove air bag components if repairing the vehicle requires impacting (shocking) the vehicle.
  • When using electric welding equipment, always disconnect air bag module connectors.
  • If painting vehicle, DO NOT expose air bag harness or connectors to paint mist.

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.