Airbag V Safety Precautions
WARNING!Airbag systems must be tested, disassembled, assembled and repaired ONLY by trained Audi Service technicians.
ALWAYS observe the following safety precautions:
- NEVER use a test light, ohmmeter or voltmeter to test the "Airbag V" system (except for checking the spiral spring See page 69-27). The system must remain installed in the vehicle for testing, and be tested using the VAG1551 Scan Tool (ST) with the VAG1551/3 adapter. DO NOT test the "Airbag V" system using VAG1619 airbag tester.
- The airbag system components must NEVER be opened, disassembled or repaired. ALWAYS use new parts.
- The airbag unit has an expiration date that is listed on the driver's-side door jamb or B-pillar. Upon expiration (15 years), the airbag unit, the expiration date sticker and (for safety reasons) all other component parts of the airbag system (except the wiring harness) must be replaced. Always check the most up-to-date information for required replacement parts.
- Airbag units must not be stored for longer than 3 months.
- If the airbag unit or airbag control module has been dropped from a height of as meters (20 in.) or more, DO NOT install the component in a vehicle.
- ALWAYS replace airbag system components that have been mechanically damaged (bubbles, cracks, etc.).
WARNING!
- Disconnect the battery Ground (GND) strap and cover the battery terminal during all work on the airbag system.
- ALWAYS disconnect the battery Ground (GND) strap. The airbag power supply harness connector has been deleted for m.y. 1996 ON and the voltage supply line is now continuous.
- After working on the airbag system, switch the ignition on and check the airbag Malfunction Indicator lamp (MIL). The airbag MIL should come on for approx. 10 seconds, then go out.
- Do not leave an un-deployed airbag unit unattended if work is interrupted. Install it in the vehicle as soon as the unit is removed from its packaging.
- Always set down a removed airbag unit so that the horn pad is facing upward.
- The airbag unit must not be exposed to grease, or cleaned with any type of cleaning agent.
- NEVER expose an airbag unit to temperatures over 100° C (212° F), even for a brief period. Keep the unit clear of heat sources such as heating plates, soldering irons, heat lamps, welding equipment, etc.
WARNING!
- If the airbag has been deployed in an accident, replace the control module and the airbag unit. Check all other components, including the spiral spring and wiring harness for damage and replace if necessary.
- Storage, transportation and disposal of airbag units are subject to the laws for flammable solids.
Disposal of airbag and control modules:
- For active airbag gas generators (units that have NOT been deployed): remove an active airbag gas generator from the vehicle carefully and return it to the Warranty Parts Test Center for proper disposal. DO NOT deploy it in the vehicle.
- Deployed airbag units (gas generators) do not have to be disposed of as "hazardous waste" but can be disposed of with other trash. However, it is recommended (for conservation reasons) that it be sent out with automotive metal scrap for recycling.
- Airbag control modules contain a mercury switch and must be disposed of following the laws governing hazardous waste disposal.