Steering: Service Precautions

WARNING: To avoid accidental deployment and possible injury, always disconnect the driver's and front passenger's airbag connectors (automatically shorted) before working near any SRS wiring.

CAUTION: Whenever the ignition switch is ON(II) , or has been turned OFF for less than three minutes, be careful not to bump the SRS unit; the airbags could accidentally deploy and cause damage or injuries.

WARNING:
Do not use test equipment on the yellow SRS wires and connectors in the steering column, console, dashboard, and floor. You could unintentionally set off the airbags, which could cause injury to you and others.

While working on other systems, be careful not to damage SRS wiring or components. Damage could make the airbags inoperative, which could lead to the driver's or the passenger's injury or death it the car were in a severe frontal collision.

NOTE:
- If an intact airbag assembly has been removed from a scrapped vehicle or has been found defective or damaged during transit, storage or service, it should be deployed.

- Before removing the steering gearbox, remove the driver's airbag assembly and steering wheel.

- After installing the steering gearbox, check the wheel alignment and adjust if necessary.

- SRS components are located in this area. Review the SRS component locations, precautions, and procedures in Air Bags and Seat Belts before performing repairs or service.

- To avoid accidental deployment and possible personal injury, always disarm the system prior to performing service procedure. Wait at least ten minutes after disconnecting the cable prior to performing any service. The SIR System is designed to retain enough voltage to deploy the air bag for a short time even after the battery ground cable has been disconnected. Performing service before a minimum of ten minutes has elapsed may cause air bag deployment and possible injury.

- To avoid deployment when troubleshooting the SIR system, do not use electrical test equipment, such as battery powered or A/C powered voltmeter, ohmmeter or any type of electrical equipment other than specified. Do not use a non-powered probe type tester.

- The passenger compartment sensors must always be installed with arrow mark facing the front of the vehicle for proper operation.

- Check sensors for cracks, deformities or rust before installation and replace as required.

- When handling or storing an air bag module, always position with the pad side facing upward.

- Keep air bag assembly free of oil, grease, detergents and water.

- Do not expose air bag assembly to temperatures that exceed 212° F.

- Do not use SIR system components from another vehicle. Always install new replacement components on vehicle.

- Inspect all components prior to installation. Do not install any components that appear to have been improperly handled or stored or that show any signs of damage.

- When performing service procedure, do not expose sensors/wiring or other SIR system components to heat guns, welding or spray guns.