Collision Inspection

On vehicles which have experienced an SRS deployment, certain air bag components must be replaced.

All system components should be inspected for dents, cracks, exposure to excessive heat and other damage, even if deployment did not take place. To ensure proper SRS operation, the vehicle structure must be returned to its original configuration. When repairing the vehicle, the SRS must be disarmed as outlined under Technician Safety Information. Also, when performing service procedures, do not expose components or wiring to heat guns, welding or spray guns.

The following components should be inspected whether air bag deployment has occurred or not:
1. Inspect steering column and steering shaft joints for damage as follows:

Fig. 1 Steering Column Capsule & Ripping Plate Inspection:

a. Ensure the two capsules are securely attached to steering column bracket. Also inspect ripping plate (2), Fig. 1, for cracks. Inspect components for looseness and other damage. Replace column if any damage is discovered.

Fig. 2 Steering Column Inspection:

b. Measure steering column assembly length, Fig. 2. Replace column if length is less than 20.79 inches.
c. Inspect steering shaft joints for looseness, cracks and other damage and replace as necessary.
d. Inspect steering shaft for smoothness of rotation. If, rotation is not smooth, replace steering column.
e. Ensure steering column and shaft are not bent or cracked, or they must be replaced.
2. Inspect driver's air bag module and steering wheel as follows:
a. If air bag has not deployment, inspect module trim cover for cracks and other damage. Also inspect air bag module for proper mounting to steering wheel. Replace air bag module or steering wheel if needed.
b. Inspect steering wheel for cracks and damage, then replace as necessary.
c. Inspect wiring harness for proper connection and damage, or replace harness in case of damage.
3. Inspect passenger's air bag and instrument panel, knee bolster and reinforcement as follows:
a. If air bag has not deployed, inspect module trim cover for cracks, dents and other damage. Replace air bag module as necessary. Also inspect air bag module for proper mounting to instrument panel.
b. Inspect instrument panel, knee bolster and reinforcement for distortion, cracking, bending and other damage. Repair or replace faulty components.
c. Inspect wiring harness for proper connection and damage. If damage is present, replace wiring harness.
4. Inspect forward sensor and mounting bracket as follows:
a. If forward sensor is in area of accident damage (an area which is bent, crushed or damaged), it should be replaced.
b. Sensor wiring harness and connectors should be inspected for chafing and interference with other components.
c. Inspect sensor mounting bracket for damage or rust and replace as necessary.
d. To ensure proper forward sensor operation, the vehicle structure must be returned to its original configuration.
5. Inspect SDM and mounting bracket as follows:
a. If SDM is in area of accident damage (an area which is bent, crushed or damaged), it should be replaced.
b. SDM wiring harness and connectors should be inspected for chafing and interference with other components. Also inspect SDM connector and terminals for tightness.
c. Inspect SDM and mounting bracket for dents, cracks and other damage, then replace if necessary.
d. To ensure proper SDM operation, the vehicle structure must be returned to its original configuration.
6. Inspect contact coil and combination switch as follows:
a. Inspect contact coil and combination switch case for damage and replace if damage is found.
b. Inspect wiring harness and connectors for damage and tightness.
7. Inspect air bag system wiring harness as follows:
a. Inspect harness and connectors for damage, tightness and proper routing.
b. Inspect harness for proper mounting to harness clamps.
c. Inspect harness grommets for proper installation and proper routing through grommets.
d. Wiring harness and connectors should be inspected for chafing and interference with other components.
e. Inspect wiring harness for heat damage.
f. If wiring harness is found to be faulty, it should be replaced.
8. Inspect seat belts and mountings for damage, then repair or replace as needed.