Air Bag Service Precautions
The following precautions should be observed when working with SRS:
- Disable SRS before servicing any SRS or steering column component. Failure to do this may result in accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury. See procedures under DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
- Wait at least 60 SECONDS after disabling air bag system. SRS system retains enough voltage, for a short time after system is disabled, to deploy air bag.
- After repairs, always turn ignition on to ensure SRS warning light is working properly and no system faults are indicated.
- Always wear safety glasses when servicing/handling air bag.
- DO NOT expose air bag module and clockspring to temperatures more than 200°F (93°C).
- 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 air bag accidentally deploys.
- After air bag deploys, air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, which irritate skin. Always wear safety glasses, rubber gloves and long-sleeved shirt during clean-up. Wash hands using mild soap and water. Follow correct clean-up and disposal procedures.
- Because of critical system operating requirements, DO NOT service any SRS components. Repairs are only made by replacing defective part(s).
- DO NOT allow any electrical source near inflator on the back of air bag module.
- When carrying live air bag module, trim cover 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, DO NOT drive vehicle until system is repaired and is fully functional. DO NOT remove bulbs, modules, sensors or other components, or in any way disable system from operating normally. If SRS is not functional, park vehicle until repairs are made.