Repairs to Be Done After A Crash
REPAIRS AND INSPECTIONS REQUIRED AFTER AN ACCIDENTNOTE: The following SIR system components must be replaced after a frontal crash involving air bag deployment:
- Driver inflator module
- Passenger inflator module
- SIR coil assembly
In all types of accidents regardless of Air Bag deployment, visually inspect the following components and their mounting points and replace as required:
- Driver inflator module
- Steering wheel
- SIR coil assembly
- Steering column
- Driver seat and belts
- Passenger inflator module
- Passenger seat and belts
- SDM
- Knee bolsters and instrument panel mounting attachments
Inspect the SIR coil assembly wiring and steering wheel for any signs of scorching, melting, or damage due to excessive heat. If the coil assembly wire or steering wheel is damaged, replace them. The steering column and wheel must be dimensionally checked to determine if they are damaged.
Never use SIR parts from another vehicle.
Do not attempt to repair the driver or passenger inflator modules, the steering wheel, the SIR coil assembly, the steering column, or the Sensing & Diagnostics Module (SDM). Service of these items is by replacement only. Verify replacement part numbers. No periodic maintenance of SIR components or system is required.
CHECKING THE STEERING COLUMN FOR ACCIDENT DAMAGE
NOTE: Vehicles involved in accidents resulting in frame damage, major sheet metal damage or where the steering column has been impacted may also have a damaged or misaligned steering column. Failure to check the steering column for damage may result in component malfunction.
1. Inspect the capsules on the steering column assembly; all must be securely seated in bracket slots and checked for any loose conditions when pushed or pulled. If any movement exceeds 1.59 mm (1/16 in.), replace column.
2. Check the steering column jacket for collapse by measuring between the end of the bearing assembly and the lower edge of the upper bracket If the dimension is less than 120.98 mm (4.76 in.), replace the jacket.
3. If the steering shaft is suspected of being bent, check the steering shaft runout in the following steps:
a. Remove the inflator module, steering wheel, shrouds, and lever combination switch.
NOTE: Failure to remove the coil assembly before the steering shaft is rotated may damage the coil assembly.
b. Remove the intermediate shaft.
c. Install a dial indicator (SA9179NE) so that its plunger rests against the upper end of the steering shaft.
d. Rotate the steering shaft while observing the dial indicator reading. If the total indicator travel shows that runout is more than 1.59 mm (1/16 in.), replace the steering column.