Air Bag Systems: Description and Operation

Fig. 1 Airbag restraint system:

The passive restraint system has five major components, the airbag module, unique steering column, clockspring, front impact sensors and Airbag System Diagnosis Module (ASDM). If any of these components fail, they are not repairable, they must be replaced.
This system is a complex electro-mechanical unit. Before attempting to diagnose, remove or install any airbag system components, it is necessary to disconnect and isolate battery ground cable, then wait at least ten minutes prior to performing any service. Failure to do so may result in possible airbag deployment or personal injury.
The fasteners, screws and bolts used for airbag components are specially designed for the airbag system. They must never be replaced with substitutes. If fastener replacement is required, use correct fasteners provided in the service package.