Service Precautions

Observe following precautions when working on SRS:

• Before servicing any SRS or steering column component, disable SRS. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Failure to disable system could result in accidental air bag deployment and personal injury.
• After ignition switch is turned to LOCK position and negative battery cable is disconnected, wait at least 2 minutes before working on SRS. SRS is equipped with a back-up power source that may allow air bag to deploy within 2 minutes of disconnecting negative battery cable.
• Remove air bag sensors if sensors are likely to be subjected to impact during repairs.
• Never disassemble or repair system components. Replace cracked, dented or otherwise damaged system components.
• DO NOT expose front air bag sensors, center air bag sensor assembly, steering wheel pad, passenger-side air bag or seat belt pretensioner to heat or flame.
• Information labels are attached to air bag components. Follow all notices on labels.
• After servicing SRS, check air bag warning light to ensure system is functioning properly. See SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) OPERATION CHECK .
• Always wear safety glasses when servicing or handling air bag.
• When placing live air bag on bench or other surface, always face air bag and trim cover up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of module if accidentally deployed.
• When carrying a live air bag module, point trim cover away from your body to minimize injury in case of accidental deployment.
• If SRS is not fully functional for any reason, vehicle should not be driven until system is repaired and again becomes operational. DO NOT remove bulbs, modules, sensors or other components or in any way disable system from operating normally. If SRS is not functional, park vehicle until it is repaired and functions properly.