Service Precautions

Observe following precautions when working with air bag systems:

• Disable SRS before servicing any SRS or steering column component. Failure to disable system could result in accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM in AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article.
• Wait 10 minutes after disconnecting negative battery cable before servicing SRS. System reserve capacitor maintains SRS voltage for about 10 minutes after battery is disconnected. Servicing SRS before 10 minutes may cause accidental air bag deployment and possible personal injury.
• DO NOT use air bag parts from another vehicle. Replace air bag parts with new parts.
• If steering wheel pad is dropped, or if there are cracks, dents or other defects in the case or connector, replace part.
• DO NOT expose steering wheel pad to temperatures greater than 194°F (90°C).
• Information labels are attached to air bag components. Follow all notices on labels.
• After work on SRS is completed, check AIR BAG warning light to ensure system is functioning properly. See AIR BAG SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK in AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article.
• Always wear safety glasses when servicing or handling an air bag.
• DO NOT check air bag module continuity with air bag removed from vehicle.
• When placing a live air bag on a bench or other surface, always face air bag and trim cover up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of module if it is 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.