Service Precautions

Observe these precautions when working with air bag system:

• Disable SRS system before servicing any SRS system, instrument panel or steering column component. Failure to do this could result in accidental air bag deployment, and possible personal injury and/or vehicle damage. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• Wait at least 15 SECONDS (10 MINUTES on Hombre) after disabling SRS before servicing vehicle. System maintains SRS system voltage for time specified. Servicing SRS system before time has elapsed could result in accidental air bag deployment, and possible personal injury and/or vehicle damage.
• After repairs, ensure AIR BAG indicator light is operating properly and no system faults are indicated. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
• Always wear safety glasses when servicing or handling an air bag.
• Air bag modules must be stored in original special container until used for service. They must be stored in a clean, dry place, away from sources of extreme heat, sparks or high electrical energy.
• When placing a live air bag module on a bench or other flat surface, always face air bag and trim cover up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of module if accidentally deployed.
• Any SRS component dropped from a height greater than 39 inches must be replaced.
• DO NOT subject SRS components to temperatures greater than 150°F (66°C).
• NEVER use SRS components from another vehicle.
• After deployment, air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, which can irritate skin. Always wear safety glasses, rubber gloves and long-sleeved shirt during clean-up, and wash hands using mild soap and water. Follow correct disposal procedures.
• After deployment, air bag module and surrounding metal areas will be hot. Wait at least 10 minutes before touching components.
• At no time should any electrical source be allowed near inflator on back of air bag module.
• When carrying a live air bag module, trim cover should be pointed away from body to minimize injury in case of accidental air bag deployment.
• DO NOT attempt to disassemble any SRS component. SRS components are serviced as a complete unit and contain no serviceable components.
• DO NOT use battery powered tester or ohmmeter on air bag module connectors. The current from these devices can trigger air bag deployment. DO NOT use probe type tester on SRS harness or components.
• DO NOT probe a wire through insulator; this will damage wire and eventually cause failure due to corrosion.
• DO NOT attempt to repair damaged SRS wiring harness. Replace harness as an assembly if damaged.
• If SRS system is not fully functional for any reason, vehicle should not be driven until system is repaired. DO NOT remove bulbs, modules, sensors or other components or in any way disable system from operating normally. If SRS system is not functional, park vehicle until repairs can be made.