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, Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) retains back-up voltage for about 10 minutes. To avoid accidental air bag deployment, wait at least one minute after disabling air bag system before working on vehicle components.
- Always wear safety glasses when working around air bag 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.
- DO NOT probe air bag inflator module connectors. Air bag may accidentally deploy.
- DO NOT attempt repair of any air bag system components. Replace any faulty components as required.
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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