Air Bag Systems: Service Precautions

CAUTION

^ Testing, assembly and repair work must only be conducted by a Certified Technician.

^ Always disconnect the Battery Ground (GND) strap before working on the airbag related system.

^ No waiting time is necessary after disconnecting the battery.

^ When connecting the airbag system to Battery Positive Voltage (B+) there MUST BE NO PERSON INSIDE THE VEHICLE.

^ Anytime the battery has been disconnected it will be necessary to reestablish Basic Settings for the Engine Control Module (ECM) and, on vehicles with automatic transmission, for the Transmission Control Module (TCM) using VAG 1551 Scan Tool (ST).

^ On cars equipped with anti-theft radios, make sure you know the radio activation code before disconnecting the battery.

^ DO NOT leave an undeployed airbag unit unattended if work is interrupted.

^ Install the new airbag unit in the vehicle as soon as the unit is removed from the packaging. If the work is interrupted, place the airbag unit back in its packaging.

^ If the airbag unit or the Airbag Control Module has been dropped from a height of 0.5 meter (19.7 in.) or more, DO NOT INSTALL.

^ Always place an airbag unit that has been removed from its packaging with the padded side facing upward.

^ Always replace any airbag system component that has been mechanically damaged (example: dented or cracked).

^ Airbag units that have NOT been activated, which have been removed from vehicles that are returning to service, should be marked and returned to the Warranty Parts Test Center for disposal (use packaging from replacement airbag unit).

^ The storage, transportation and disposal of airbag units are subject to the laws for flammable solids.

^ Disposal of airbag units: Service and Repair

^ Deployed airbag units (gas generators): deployed airbag units DO NOT have to be disposed of as hazardous waste but can be discarded in the normal manner However, it is recommended to have the unit recycled.