Air Bag Safety Precautions

Observe the following service precautions when working on SRS system:

• Disable air bag system before servicing any air bag system-steering column component. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
• When trouble shooting air bag system, always check diagnostic codes before disconnecting battery.
• After turning ignition switch off and disconnecting negative battery cable, wait at least 10 minutes before working on air bag system. Air bag system is equipped with a back-up power source that may allow air bags and seat belt pretensioners to deploy up to 10 minutes after negative battery cable is disconnected.
• When placing a live air bag on a bench or other surface, ensure trim pad surface 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.
• Because of critical system operating requirements, never attempt to service air bag modules, clockspring, seat belt pretensioners, wiring harness or Air Bag Diagnostic Unit (ADU). Corrections are made by replacement with new parts only. Never use parts from another vehicle.
• If any SRS component has been dropped, or cracks, dents or other defects are visible, replace with new parts.
• Do not attempt to measure resistance across air bag module or seat belt pretensioner connector terminals. Accidental deployment is possible which could cause personal injury.
• After deployment, component surfaces 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 air bag system, ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .