Service Precautions

Observe these precautions when working with air bag systems:

• Disable SRS before servicing any SRS or steering column component. Failure to do so could result in accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• Wait at least 3 minutes after deactivating air bag system. System maintains air bag system voltage for about 3 minutes after battery is disconnected. Servicing air bag system before 3 minutes may cause accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury.
• After an accident, inspect all SRS components, including harness and brackets. Replace any damaged or bent components even if a deployment did not occur. Check steering column, knee bolster, instrument panel steering column reinforcement plate and lower brace for damage. DO NOT service any component or wiring. Replace any damaged or defective components or wiring.
• After repairs, turn ignition on from passenger-side of vehicle (on single air bag models). Verify SRS indicator light works properly and no system faults are indicated. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
• Always wear safety glasses when servicing or handling an air bag.
• Air bag module must be stored in its original special container until ready for service. Store air bag module and container in a clean, dry place, away from extreme heat, sparks and sources of high electrical energy.
• When placing a live air bag module on a bench or other surface, always face air bag and trim cover up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of module if it is accidentally deployed.
• NEVER allow any electrical source near inflator on back of air bag module.
• When carrying a live air bag module, point trim cover away from your body to minimize injury in case of accidental air bag deployment.
• DO NOT probe a wire through insulator; this will damage wire and eventually cause failure due to corrosion.
• When performing electrical tests, always use test harnesses recommended by manufacturer. DO NOT use test probes directly on component connector pins or wires.
• If SRS is not fully functional for any reason, DO NOT operate vehicle 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.