Air Bag Safety Precautions

Observe these precautions when servicing the air bag system:

Disable air bag system before servicing any system component. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
Wait at least 3 minutes after disabling air bag system before servicing system. Air bag system voltage is maintained for 3 minutes after system is disabled. Servicing system before 3 minute waiting period has elapsed may cause accidental air bag system deployment and possible personal injury.
If air bag system is not fully functional, vehicle must be parked until all repairs are completed. NEVER attempt to disable air bag system, or remove warning bulbs, with intent of continuing vehicle service.
Air bag system will operate only when ignition switch is in ON or START positions. Ignition switch should be in LOCK position when working under hood or inside vehicle.
When servicing vehicle, air bag system and related parts should be pointed away from technician.
DO NOT repair, splice or modify any air bag system wiring harness. If harness is damaged, it must be replaced.
DO NOT use a circuit tester to check air bag harness connectors. Air bag system wiring harness and connectors have Yellow insulation for easy identification. Keep all ground points clean.
Diagnosis sensor unit must be installed with arrow facing front of vehicle.
If steering gear is removed, DO NOT turn steering wheel or column shaft. Rotation of air bag system spiral cable is limited. Spiral cable will be damaged.
Handle air bag modules and seat belt pretensioners carefully. Always place air bag modules with pad facing upward. DO NOT disassemble air bag modules or seat belt pretensioners.
DO NOT expose air bag modules to temperatures exceeding 194°F (90°C ). DO NOT allow oil, grease, or water to contact modules.
DO NOT expose seat belt pretensioners to temperatures exceeding 176°F (80°C ).
If front or side of vehicle is damaged in a collision, all air bag system components must be inspected and replaced as necessary. See POST-COLLISION INSPECTION .
Before discarding an air bag module or seat belt pretensioner, always deploy component. See DISPOSAL PROCEDURES .
Replace used mounting bolts and nuts with NEW mounting bolts and nuts.
After servicing, perform system operation check. Go to SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .