Remote Deployment Of AIR Bag Or Pretensioner (Seats Installed)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Lincoln LS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

This procedure is to be used when a vehicle with a live air bag module or seat belt pretensioner is to be scrapped.

WARNING: Air bags being deployed may cause objects to be projected away from air bag. Also, loud noise occurs during deployment. Personal injury and hearing damage may result. To ensure physical and hearing safety, perform remote deployment outdoors and keep all personnel at least 20 feet (6.09 m) away deployment area. Wear safety goggles and hearing protection during deployment procedure.

Before proceeding, see AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Deactivate air bag system. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Remove appropriate air bag module or seat belt pretensioner. See REMOVAL & INSTALLATION .
On seat belt pretensioner, cut and strip wires near pretensioner electrical connector. On all devices, obtain 2 wires, each at least 20 gauge and 20 feet (6.09 m) or longer. Place device to be deployed on flat surface in an open outdoor area with trim cover (deployment side) facing up.
On seat belt pretensioner, connect one end of each 20-foot wire to end of each stripped pretensioner wire. On air bag modules, connect one end of each 20-foot wire to end of each terminal on air bag. Deploy device by touching loose ends of both wires to 12-volt battery terminals. If successful, a loud noise will be heard and on deployed air bags, bag material will be visible. Allow at least 10 minutes for cooling before handling device.
Device is now inoperative and may be disposed of as any other part to be scrapped. If device does not deploy, device is faulty. Contact vehicle manufacturer for further instructions on disposal procedures.