Air Bag Module Disposal Procedures

Airbag System
Non-deployed
At no time should any source of electricity be permitted near the inflator on the back of an airbag module. When carrying a non-deployed airbag module, the trim cover or airbag side of the module should be pointed away from the body to minimize injury in the event of an accidental deployment. If the module is placed on a bench or any other surface, the trim cover or airbag side of the module should be face up to minimize movement in the event of an accidental deployment.

In addition, the airbag system should be disarmed whenever any steering wheel, steering column, or instrument panel components require diagnosis or service. Failure to observe this warning could result in accidental airbag deployment and possible personal injury. Refer to Instrument Panel Systems for additional service procedures on the instrument panel.

Deployed
Any vehicle which is to be returned to use after an airbag deployment, must have both airbag modules, the clockspring, and the steering column assembly replaced. These components will be damaged or weakened as a result of an airbag deployment, which may or may not be obvious during a visual inspection, and are not intended for reuse.

Other vehicle components should be closely inspected, but are to be replaced only as required by the extent of the visible damage incurred.