Service Precautions: Notes

The following precautions should be observed when servicing SIR system and its related components. Failure to do so could result in personal injury and vehicle damage.

• Always disable SIR system before servicing any SIR or steering column component. Failure to do so could result in accidental air bag deployment and personal injury. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• After disabling SIR system, wait at least 2 minutes before resuming servicing. SDM maintains system voltage for about 2 minutes after loss of battery or ignition power. Failure to follow this procedure could cause accidental air bag deployment and personal injury.
• After completing any repair, be sure that AIR BAG warning light is functioning properly and that no faults remain in system. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
• Always wear safety goggles when servicing or handling an air bag module.
• Inflator modules must be stored in their original containers until placed into service. They must be stored in a clean, dry place, away from sources of electrical noise at temperatures below 150°F (65°C).
• When a live inflator module must be placed on a bench or other surface, be sure that air bag and trim cover are facing upward and away from surface. This will help to minimize motion of air bag in event of accidental deployment.
• When handling a deployed air bag, always wear goggles, rubber gloves, and a long sleeved shirt. Surface of air bag will be coated with sodium hydroxide (a skin irritant) so avoid contact with skin. Follow correct disposal procedures and be sure to wash your hands with mild soap and water after handling a deployed air bag. See DISPOSAL PROCEDURES .
• Never allow any electrical source to come near inflator module.
• When carrying a live inflator module, be sure to keep trim cover pointed away from your body. This will minimize risk of injury in event of accidental deployment.
• NEVER probe through insulation of any wire in SIR wiring harness. Even minor damage to SIR system wiring could cause system to function improperly.
• Avoid accidental shorting of connector terminals. Such mistakes could cause component damage, making diagnosis of original fault more difficult.
• NEVER use a volt/ohm meter, test light or other electrical equipment to diagnose SIR system unless specified by manufacturer. See SIR RECOMMENDED TOOLS  table. Use of improper diagnostic equipment could cause system damage or accidental deployment.
• If SIR system is not fully functional, for any reason, vehicle should not be driven until system is repaired. DO NOT remove warning bulbs or system components and DO NOT  attempt to disable SIR system in any way.