Service Precautions

Observe these precautions when working with air bag systems:

• Disable SRS before servicing any SRS, instrument panel or steering column component. Failure to do this could result in accidental air bag deployment, causing personal injury and/or vehicle damage. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• Wait at least 3 MINUTES after disabling air bag system. A back-up power circuit capacitor (in SRS control unit) maintains system voltage for about 3 minutes after battery is disconnected. Servicing air bag system or seat belt pretensioners before 3 minutes may cause accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury.
• After an accident, all SRS components, including wiring harnesses and brackets, must be inspected. If any components are damaged or bent, they must be replaced, even if air bag did not deploy. Check steering column, knee bolster, instrument panel steering column reinforcement plate and lower brace for damage. DO NOT repair any component or wiring. If components or wiring are damaged or defective, replacement is required.
• Carefully inspect all SRS components before installation. DO NOT install any component that shows signs of being dropped or improperly handled, such as dents, cracks or other deformities.
• DO NOT install SRS components previously installed on another vehicle. When replacing SRS components, use only NEW, manufacturer supplied components.
• DO NOT expose air bags to temperatures exceeding 200°F (93°C).
• DO NOT spill water or oil on air bags or side impact sensors.
• Always wear safety glasses when servicing SRS or handling an air bag or seat belt pretensioner (if equipped).
• DO NOT attempt to disassemble air bag assembly, cable reel, or seat belt pretensioner (if equipped). Neither component has any serviceable or reusable parts.
• A replacement air bag assembly must be stored in its original special container until used for service. Special container 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 assembly on a bench or other surface, always face air bag and trim cover up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of air bag assembly if accidentally deployed.
• During installation or replacement of SRS control unit, DO NOT bump, drop or strike unit or immediate area. SRS unit could be damaged and/or air bag deployment could occur.
• After deployment, air bag assembly is very hot. Wait 30 minutes before handling. After deployment, air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium azide and potassium nitrate, 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.
• After air bag deployment, inspect all SRS wiring harnesses for heat or other damage. Replace, DO NOT repair, any damaged harnesses. Ensure all SRS ground connections are clean and tight. Ensure SRS wiring harnesses are installed so that they are not pinched or interfere with other components.
• DO NOT allow any electrical source near inflator on back of air bag assembly or near 3-pin connector of seat belt pretensioner.
• When carrying a live air bag assembly, trim cover pad should be pointed away from body to minimize injury in case of accidental air bag deployment.
• 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.