Airbag Handling Precautions
WARNING:- Always wear safety glasses when servicing an air bag vehicle and when handling a driver side air bag module.
- The backup power supply energy must be depleted before any air bag component service is performed. To deplete the backup power supply energy, disconnect the battery ground cable and wait ten minutes.
Safe handling of driver side air bag modules requires following the procedures described for both live and deployed air bags.
LIVE AIR BAGS
When carrying a live driver side air bag module, make sure the air bag and steering wheel trim cover are pointed away from your body. In the unlikely event of an accidental deployment; the air bag will then deploy with minimal chance of injury. In addition, when placing a live air bag on a bench or other surface, always face the air bag and steering wheel trim cover up, away from the surface. This will reduce the motion of the driver side air bag module if it is accidentally deployed.
DEPLOYED AIR BAGS
- Safety precautions must also be observed when handling a deployed air bag.
- Always wear gloves and safety glasses when handling a deployed air bag. After deployment, the air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, a product of the gas generant combustion, that is irritating to the skin.
- Wash your hands with mild soap and water afterwards.
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
- NEVER probe the connectors on the air bag. Doing so may result in air bag deployment which could result in personal injury.
- Driver side air bag modules with discolored or damaged cover deployment doors must be replaced, not repainted.
- Because of the critical operating requirements of the system, do not attempt to service sensors, air bag sliding contact, air bag diagnostic monitor, backup power supply, or driver side air bag module. service is made by replacement only.
- If a part is replaced and the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and perform the diagnostic procedure again.
- All component replacements and wiring service must be made with the battery ground cable disconnected for a minimum of ten minutes before service or replacement is attempted.
- The instruction to "disconnect" always refers to the connector. NEVER detach a component from the vehicle when instructed to "disconnect."
- Vehicle sensor orientation is critical for proper system operation. If a vehicle equipped with an air bag system has been involved in a crash where the grille area has been damaged, inspect the sensor mounting bracket for deformation. If damaged, the sensor should be replaced whether or not the air bag is deployed. In addition, ensure that the body structure in the area of the sensor mounting is restored to its original condition.