Service Precautions

Observe these precautions when working with air bag systems:

• Before servicing the SRS, turn ignition switch off, disconnect both battery cables and WAIT at least 3 minutes after disabling SRS before servicing vehicle. SRS voltage is maintained for at least 3 minutes after system is disabled. Servicing system before waiting 3 minutes may cause accidental SRS deployment and possible personal injury.
• Air bag will operate only when ignition switch is in ON or START position. Ignition switch should be in OFF position when working under hood or inside vehicle.
• DO NOT attempt to repair, splice or modify SRS wiring harness. If harness is damaged, replace it with a new one.
• When servicing vehicle, air bag module should be pointed away from technician.
• DO NOT use a circuit tester to check air bag harness connectors. SRS wiring harness and connectors have Yellow insulation for easy identification. Keep all ground points clean.
• Impact sensor(s), safing sensor and tunnel sensor must be installed with arrow marks facing front of vehicle. Also, check sensors for cracks, defects and rust before installation. Replace sensors as necessary.
• If steering gear is removed, DO NOT turn steering wheel or column shaft. Rotation of SRS spiral cable under steering wheel air bag module is limited. SRS spiral cable must be aligned in neutral position (centered).
• On vehicles equipped with passenger's side air bag module ON/OFF switch, ensure ON/OFF switch is in the same position as when vehicle was brought in for service.
• Handle air bag modules carefully. Always place air bag modules with pad facing upward. DO NOT disassemble air bag module.
• DO NOT use old bolts after removal; replace with new ones.
• DO NOT insert any foreign objects (screwdriver, etc.) into air bag module connector.
• Replace air bag module if it has been dropped or sustained an impact.
• After servicing SRS system, perform SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK  .
• DO NOT expose air bag module to temperatures exceeding 194°F (90°C).
• DO NOT expose seat belt pretensioners to temperatures exceeding 176°F (80°C).
• DO NOT allow oil, grease or water to contact air bag module or seat belt pretensioner assembly.
• If vehicle is damaged in a collision, check impact sensor, tunnel and safing sensors and related wiring harnesses.
• Wear gloves when handling deployed air bag module.
• Before discarding an air bag module or seat belt pretensioner (including scrapping a vehicle with air bag system), always deploy air bag(s) and seat belt pretensioners.
• Always place the side curtain air bag module with the warning label facing upward.
• DO NOT attempt to disassemble side curtain air bag module.