Air Bag Safety Precautions

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

Following precautions should be observed when working with air bag systems:

Disable air bag before servicing any air bag system/steering column component. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
DO NOT connect or disconnect SAS module with key in ON position, as this may cause air bags to deploy.
DO NOT remove or install SAS module with connector installed. Movement generated by removal or installation may cause crash sensor to signal for deployment of air bags.
Because of critical system operating requirements, DO NOT service any air bag system component or wiring harness. Corrections are made by replacement only.
If vehicle has been involved in an event that has caused air bags to deploy, SAS module must be replaced. Failure to replace SAS module after air bag deployment may cause air bag system to malfunction.
DO NOT use an ohmmeter to check resistance of air bag module, as it may cause air bag deployment.
When carrying a live (undeployed) module, ensure trim cover is pointed away from your body. This minimizes chance of injury in event of accidental air bag deployment.
When placing a live air bag module on any surface, always face trim cover upward to reduce motion of module if it is accidentally deployed.
Air bag system clockspring must be aligned in neutral position, since its rotation ability is limited. DO NOT turn steering wheel or column after removal of steering gear.
A double-lock mechanism is used on clockspring connectors. DO NOT use excessive force when disconnecting connectors, as damage to connector may occur.