Service Precautions

Observe the following precautions when working with air bag systems:

• Disable air bag system before servicing any air bag system or steering column components. Failure to do so may result in accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• Because of critical system operating requirements, DO NOT service sensors, clockspring, air bag diagnostic monitor or air bag module. Servicing is made by replacement only.
• Always wear gloves and safety glasses when servicing an air bag-equipped vehicle or handling an air bag.
• When carrying a live air bag, point air bag and trim cover away from your body. This minimizes chance of injury in case of accidental deployment.
• When placing a live air bag 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.
• After deployment, air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, which may irritate skin. Always wear gloves and safety glasses when handling a deployed air bag. Wash hands using mild soap and water. Follow correct disposal procedures.
• Air bag modules with discolored or damaged cover deployment doors must be replaced, not repainted.
• Vehicle impact sensor orientation is critical for proper system operation. If vehicle is involved in a collision, inspect sensor mounting brackets for deformation. Ensure body structure in sensor mounting area is restored to its original condition. If damaged, the impact sensor must be replaced regardless of whether or not air bag is deployed.
• Never probe connectors on air bag module. Doing so may cause air bag deployment and personal injury.
• The instruction to DISCONNECT always refers to a component connector. DO NOT remove a component from vehicle when instructed to DISCONNECT.
• Air bag simulators MUST be removed and the air bags reconnected when the air bag system is reactivated.
• After any servicing, perform SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .