Airbag safety precautions

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 19 other vehicles, including the 1999 Volkswagen Jetta, 1999 Volkswagen Golf, 1999 Volkswagen GTI, 1998 Volkswagen Jetta, and 1998 Volkswagen Golf. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Testing, assembly and repair work must only be conducted by trained Service department personnel.
Always disconnect the Battery Ground (GND) strap before working on the airbag related system.
No waiting time is necessary after disconnecting the battery.
When connecting the airbag system to Battery Positive Voltage (B+) there must be NO person inside the vehicle.
Any time the battery has been disconnected it will be necessary to reestablish basic settings for the Engine Control Module (ECM) and, on vehicles with automatic transmission, for the Transmission Control Module (TCM), using VAG1551 Scan Tool (ST).
On cars equipped with anti- theft radios, make sure you know the radio activation code before disconnecting the battery.
DO NOT leave an un-deployed airbag unit unattended if work is interrupted.
Install the new airbag unit in the vehicle as soon as the unit is removed from the packaging. If the work is interrupted, place the airbag unit back in its packaging.

If the airbag unit or the airbag control module has been dropped from a height of 0.5 meter 19.7 in.) or more, DO NOT install.
Always place an airbag unit that has been removed from its packaging with the padded side facing upward.
Always replace any airbag system component that has been mechanically damaged (example: dented or cracked).
Airbag units that have NOT been activated, which have been removed from vehicles that are returning to service, should be marked and returned to the Warranty Parts Test Center for disposal (use packaging from replacement airbag unit).
Only install original seat covers that have been authorized for use with side airbags (recognizable by airbag label).
The use of commercially available loose fitting covers is not permissible (loose fitting airbag suitable covers are in preparation).
When installing the backrest cover ensure that the cover seam is straight in the area of the side airbag.
Replace all cover clips.
Only use original clips.
For safety reasons always replace cover if damaged in area of side airbag (torn, burn holes etc).