Air Bag System

CAUTION: Read the following safety precautions before servicing steering columns on vehicles equipped with air bag restraint system.

ALWAYS wear safety glasses when servicing a vehicle with air bag and when handling an air bag removed from vehicle.

When carrying a live air bag, ensure bag and trim cover are pointed away from your body. In the unlikely event of an accidental deployment, bag will then deploy with minimal chance of injury. When placing a live air bag on a bench or other surface, ALWAYS face air bag and trim cover up, away from the surface. This will reduce the motion of the module if it is accidentally deployed.

Safety precautions must also be observed when handling a deployed air bag. After deployment, air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, a product of the gas generate combustion that irritates the skin. ALWAYS wear gloves and safety glasses when handling a deployed air bag, and wash hands with mild soap and water afterward.

Because of the critical operating requirements of system, DO NOT attempt to service air bag module or coil assembly. To correct system malfunctions, replace entire part.

After any servicing, ensure that Inflatable Restraint Indicator Light (AIR BAG light) flashes 7 to 9 times and then turns off. This ensures SIR system is working properly.