Air Bag Safety Precautions

Observe these precautions when working on SRS:

• When working around steering column and before any repairs are performed, disable SRS. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM  .
• Always ensure radio is off before disconnecting battery. This will prevent damage to radio microprocessor.
• Before straightening damaged metal or arc-welding, disable SRS and disconnect front sensors. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM  .
• After disabling SRS, wait at least 5 minutes before servicing vehicle. SRS control unit maintains SRS voltage for about 5 minutes after system is disabled. Servicing SRS before 5 minutes may cause accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury.
• Always wear safety glasses and gloves when handling a deployed air bag module. Air bag module may contain sodium hydroxide deposits, which irritates skin.
• Handle sensors carefully. Never strike or jar sensors. All sensors and mounting bracket bolts must be tightened to specification to ensure proper sensor operation. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS  .
• Never use any SRS component that has been dropped from 2 feet or higher.
• To avoid air bag deployment when trouble shooting SRS, DO NOT use self-powered electrical test equipment, such as battery- powered or AC-powered voltmeter, ohmmeter, etc. DO NOT repair any part of SRS wiring harness.
• Always handle air bag module with trim cover away from your body. Always place air bag module on workbench with trim cover up, away from loose objects.
• Never expose SRS components to temperatures greater than 167 F (75 C).
• Never expose any SRS system components to cleaning agents such as solvents, gasoline, lye, etc.