General Safety Guidelines

GENERAL SAFETY

1. Always wear appropriate eye protection.

2. Block the drive wheels, as a safety routine, before beginning any service with the vehicle on the ground.

3. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Use jackstands, on a flat and level hard surface, for safe support.

4. Use caution when working near the catalytic converter to prevent the possibility of burns. The temperatures within the converter can exceed 1000°F.

5. Ignition systems present a shock hazard; exercise care when performing spark test.

6. When servicing the fuel system use the following cautions:
a. Put a "CAUTION: FLAMMABLE" sign in the workshop.
b. Be sure to furnish the shop with the proper fire extinguisher.
c. Be sure to disconnect battery ground cable before any service work is done.
d. Place a suitable container under the connection to be opened.
e. Slowly open connection, allow pressure to escape, and catch spilled fuel in container.
NOTE: If available, use system bleed valve (schrader) to relieve pressure.
f. Disconnect line or hose, then plug all fittings.
g. Put any drained fuel in an explosive-proof container and put the lid on securely.

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

1. All SRS system components, including harness and brackets, must be inspected after an accident. Any SRS components that are damaged or bent must be replaced with new parts even if a deployment did not occur. Never use SRS parts from another vehicle. DO NOT attempt to repair SRS parts; service is by replacement only.
2. The DERM can maintain sufficient voltage to cause a deployment for up to 10 minutes after the ignition switch is turned "OFF" and the battery is disconnected.
3. Be very careful when handling a sensor. Never strike or jar a sensor. If you do, it could cause deployment and result in personal injury or improper operation of the SRS. Never power up the SRS system when a sensor is not rigidly attached to the vehicle since the sensor is easily activated when not attached, and deployment could result.
4. When carrying a live inflator module, make sure the bag and trim cover are pointed away from you. Never carry the inflator module by the wires or connector on the underside of the module.
5. After deployment, the air bag surface may contain a small amount of sodium hydroxide, a by-product of the deployment reaction that is irritating to the skin and eyes. Most of the powder on the air bag is harmless. Wash your hands with mild soap and water after handling deployed air bags.

WARNING: To avoid rendering the SRS inoperative, which can lead to personal injury or death in the event of a severe frontal collision, all maintenance must be performed by a properly trained technician. Improper maintenance, including incorrect removal and installation of the SRS, can lead to personal injury caused by unintentional activation of the airbag. All SRS electrical wiring harnesses are covered with yellow outer insulation, and related components are located in the steering column, center console, dash, and front fenders. DO NOT use electrical test equipment on these circuits.