Air Bag Safety Precautions

Observe these precautions when servicing the air bag 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 to OFF position 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 or seat belt pretensioners to deploy up to 10 minutes after negative battery cable is disconnected.
• During servicing of air bag system, store air bag modules where ambient temperature is less than 200°F (93°C) and humidity and electrical noise are low.
• When placing a live air bag on a bench or other surface, ensure top surface is facing up, away from work surface. This will reduce motion of module if it is accidentally deployed.
• When carrying air bag module, point cover away from body to lessen chance of injury during accidental deployment.
• Because of critical system operating requirements, DO NOT attempt to service air bag modules, clockspring, seat belt pretensioners, wiring harness or Air Bag Control Unit (ACU). Corrections are made by replacement with NEW parts only. Never use parts from another vehicle.
• If air bag module, seat belt pretensioner or Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) have been dropped or there are cracks, dents or other defects visible, replace component with a 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 on air bag system is completed, ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .