Service Precautions

Observe these precautions when working with, or near air bag systems:

• Disable air bag system before servicing any air bag system or steering column component. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• Wait at least 10 minutes after disabling air bag system before servicing. Air bag system voltage is maintained for about 10 minutes after battery is disconnected. Servicing system before 10-minute period may cause accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury.
• DO NOT use a circuit tester to check air bag harness connectors. The air bag system wiring harness and connectors have Yellow insulation for easy identification.
• When servicing vehicle, air bag system and related parts should be pointed away from technician.
• DO NOT repair, splice or modify the air bag system wiring harness. If harness is damaged, it MUST be replaced.
• Because of critical operating requirements of system, DO NOT attempt to service sensors, spiral cable, monitor, back-up power supply or air bag module. Corrections are made by replacement only.
• All sensors must ALWAYS be installed with arrow marks facing front of vehicle. Also, check sensors, covers and brackets for cracks, defects or rust. Replace sensor(s) if required.
• Air bag system spiral cable MUST be aligned in the neutral position, since its rotation ability is limited. DO NOT turn steering wheel or column after removal of steering gear.
• Always wear safety glasses when servicing an air bag equipped vehicle or handling an air bag.
• When carrying a live air bag, make sure air bag and trim cover are pointed away from your body. This minimizes chance of injury in event of an accidental deployment.
• Handle air bag module carefully. ALWAYS place air bag module with steering wheel pad facing upward. DO NOT disassemble air bag, module. Contents of air bag module is poisonous and extremely flammable.
• After removing air bag components, replace old bolts with new ones. Perform SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK  to check air bag system for proper operation.
• DO NOT expose air bag module to temperatures exceeding 212°F (100°C). DO NOT allow oil, grease or water to contact air bag module.
• If front of vehicle is damaged in collision, always check the impact (crash) sensor areas, sensors and related wiring harnesses.
• Always properly deploy air bag before discarding air bag module or a vehicle equipped with an air bag system.