Air Bag System

Repairs and inspections required after an accident

CAUTION: Any repairs to the vehicle's structure must return it to the original production configuration. Deployment requires replacement of the sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) and the inflator modules, and a dimensional inspection of the steering column.

- If any supplemental inflatable restraints (SIR) system components are damaged, they must be replaced. If SIR component mounting points are damaged, they must be repaired or replaced.
- Never use SIR parts from another vehicle. This does not include remanufactured parts purchased from an authorized source.
- Do not attempt to service the SDM, the clock spring, or the airbag modules. These items must be replaced if they are defective.
- Verify the part number of replacement airbag modules. Some inflator modules look identical but contain different internal components.

Accident with or without deployment - Component inspections
Certain inspections must be performed after any crash, whether the airbag has deployed or not:
- The steering column must be dimensionally inspected.
- Inspect the knee bolsters and mounting points for distortion, bending, cracking, or other damage.
- Inspect the instrument panel (I/P) steering column reinforcement plate for distortion, bending, cracking, or other damage.
- Inspect the I/P braces for for distortion, bending, cracking, or other damage.
- Inspect seat belts and mounting points. Refer to Seat Belts.

Accidents with deployment - Component replacement and inspections
Certain supplemental inflatable restraints (SIR) components must be replaced or inspected for damage after a frontal crash involving airbag deployment. Replace the following SIR components:
- The sensing and diagnostic module (SDM).
- Inflator modules.
Inspect the clock spring and replace it if necessary. Inspect the wiring and the connector for any signs of scorching, melting, or damage due to excessive heat.