Safety Precautions When Working on Airbag
Safety precautions when working on airbag
WARNING:
- Testing, removing, installing and repair work must only be performed by qualified, trained Service department personnel.
- Never use test lamp, voltmeter or ohmmeter for testing.
- The airbag system may only be checked in its installed position using VAG1551/1552 scan tool. Exception: coil connector with slip ring.
- Always disconnect the battery Ground (GND) strap before working on the airbag 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.
- A technician must be electrostatically discharged before picking up (touching) an airbag unit. This is accomplished by touching a suitable metal part, for example, a water pipe, a heating pipe or a metal frame.
- Install a 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.
- Do not leave an undeployed airbag unit unattended if work is interrupted.
- Always place an airbag unit that has been removed from its packaging with the padded side facing upward.
- Airbag parts should not be opened or repaired. Always use new parts.
CAUTION:
Before beginning repairs on the electrical system:
- Obtain the anti-theft radio security code.
- Switch the ignition off.
- Disconnect the battery Ground (GND) strap.
- On vehicles equipped with Audi Telematics by OnStar(R), switch-off the emergency (backup) battery for the Telematic/Telephone Control Module prior to disconnecting vehicle battery.
- After reconnecting vehicle battery, re-code and check operation of anti-theft radio. Also check operation of clock and power windows according to Repair Manual and/or Owner's Manual.
- After reconnecting vehicle battery on vehicles equipped with Audi Telematics by OnStar(R), switch-on the emergency (backup) battery for the Telematic/Telephone Control Module.
- Airbag units which have dropped onto a hard surface or show signs of damage must not be installed in the vehicle.
- Airbag units which have not been activated should be marked and returned to the manufacturer for disposal (use airbag unit transport container).
- Always replace any airbag system component that has been mechanically damaged (example: dented or cracked).
- The storage and transportation of airbag units must comply with the regulations for explosive substances.
- Only install original seat covers that have been authorized for use with side airbags (recognizable by AIRBAG label).
- Do not install commercially available loose fitting seat covers.
- When installing a backrest cover ensure that the cover seam is straight in the area of the side airbag.
- Replace all seat cover clips.
- Only use original seat cover clips.
- For safety reasons always replace the seat cover if it is damaged in area of the side airbag, e.g. torn, burn holes, etc.
- On vehicles equipped with Audi Telematics by OnStar(R), switch-off the emergency (backup) battery for the Telematic/Telephone Control Module prior to disconnecting the vehicle battery. Switch-on the emergency (back-up) battery after reconnecting the vehicle battery.
- Airbag unit has a scrap date. The scrap date is listed on a label.
Airbag III: Label on sun visor
Airbag V and 7: Label at bottom of B-pillar driver side.
- After 14 years the airbag must be replaced.
- When replacing an airbag remove scrap date label from new airbag and place it over the old one.
- For vehicles without adhesive label on B-pillar enter airbag-change in service-booklet.
- Always observe the following sequence when replacing an airbag unit:
1. Remove old airbag unit and set down with padded side facing upward.
2. Remove new airbag unit from packaging and set down with padded side facing upward.
3. Immediately place old airbag unit in packaging.
4. Install new airbag unit in vehicle.