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:
- Disable air bag system before attempting any repairs to steering column or components. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
- After disabling air bag system, DERM maintains back-up voltage. To avoid accidental deployment, wait at least 15 minutes after disabling air bag system before servicing.
- Always wear safety glasses when servicing system.
- Always carry a live (undeployed) air bag with trim cover facing away from your body. This minimizes chance of injury if air bag accidentally deploys.
- Place a live (undeployed) air bag on a bench or other surface with trim cover facing up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of air bag if it accidentally deploys.
- Never probe inflator module connectors; air bag may accidentally deploy.
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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