Air Bag Safety Precautions

Observe these precautions when servicing the air bag system:

• Disable air bag system before servicing any air bag system or steering column component. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• When trouble shooting SRS, always check diagnostic codes before disconnecting battery.
• After turning ignition off and disconnecting negative battery cable, wait at least 30 seconds before working on SRS. SRS is equipped with a back-up power source that may allow SRS components to deploy up to 30 seconds after negative battery cable is disconnected.
• Store air bag modules and seat belt pretensioners where ambient temperature is less than 200°F (93°C), humidity is low and static electricity is not present.
• When placing a live air bag on a bench or other surface, ensure deployment side is facing up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of module if it is accidentally deployed.
• Use a volt-ohm meter with high impedance (10 k/ohm minimum) for trouble shooting electrical circuits.
• If electric welding is necessary to repair vehicle, disconnect negative battery cable before starting work.
• DO NOT attempt to service SRS components. Corrections are made by replacement with new parts only. Never use parts from another vehicle.
• If any SRS component has been dropped, has dents, cracks or other defects in case, brackets or connectors, replace with new part.
• DO NOT attempt to measure resistance across air bag module squib connector. Accidental air bag deployment is possible which could cause personal injury.
• After deployment, air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, which irritates skin, from gas generant combustion. Always wear safety glasses, rubber gloves, and long-sleeved shirt during clean-up. Wash hands using mild soap and water.
• After work is complete on SRS, ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .