Procedure 2: Remote Deployment Of Air Bag

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1995 Ford Pickup, 1995 Ford F-Super Duty, 1995 Ford Cab & Chassis, and 1995 Ford Bronco. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

This procedure is used when a vehicle with a live air bag is to be scrapped, but a problem in air bag electrical system prevents deployment with air bag installed in vehicle. This procedure can also be used if PROCEDURE 1 was unsuccessful.

WARNING: Perform remote deployment outdoors. Keep all personnel at least 20 feet away to ensure physical safety from projected objects and loud noise from air bag deployment.

Before proceeding, read and understand all air bag service precautions. See SERVICE PRECAUTIONS . Deactivate air bag system. See COMPLETE SYSTEM DEACTIVATION procedure under DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM.
Remove air bag module. See DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MODULE R & I under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. With air bag module removed, cut air bag connector from wiring harness. Strip 1" of insulation from wire ends. Obtain 2 wires at least 20 feet long. Connect one end of each 20-foot wire to one end of each air bag module connector wire.
WARNING: When placing a live air bag on a bench or other surface, always face air bag and trim cover up and away from surface. This will reduce motion of air bag module if it is accidentally deployed.
Place air bag module with trim cover facing upward on a flat surface in a remote area such as a parking lot or field. Remain at least 20 feet away from air bag module. Deploy air bag by touching loose ends of both wires to 12-volt battery terminals.
If successful, a loud noise will be heard, and bag material will be visible. Allow at least 10 minutes for cooling and dissipation of air bag effluents before approaching air bag. Air bag is now inoperative and may be scrapped in usual manner. If air bag does not deploy, module is faulty. Contact vehicle manufacturer for disposal instructions.