Vehicle Damage Warnings

Safety Precautions When Working On Airbags

- Testing, removing, installing and repair work must only be performed by qualified, trained personnel.
- Always disconnect the battery ground (GND) strap before working on airbag system.
- No waiting time is necessary after disconnecting the battery.
- When connecting airbag system to a voltage source, there must be no person inside the vehicle.
- A technician must be electrostatically discharged before picking up (touching) an airbag unit. This is accomplished by touching a suitable metal part, for example, a water pipe, a heating pipe or metal frame.
- Airbag units should be installed immediately after removing them from their packaging.
- If work is interrupted, airbag unit should again be placed in its packaging.
- It is not permitted to leave airbag unit unattended.
- Airbag units which have been removed should be stored so that padded side is facing up.
- Airbag units which have dropped onto a hard surface or show signs of damage must not be installed in the vehicle.
- Airbag units which have not been activated should be marked and returned to manufacturer for disposal in original airbag unit transport containers.
- Only install original seat covers that have been authorized for use with side airbags (recognizable by airbag label).
- Use of commercially-available loose-fitting covers is not permissible.
- When installing backrest cover ensure that cover seam is straight in area of side airbag.
- Always replace all cover clips.
- Only use original clips.
- Always replace cover if damaged in area of side airbag - torn, burn holes etc.- for safety reasons.
- Ensure customer is aware that adhesive from tape, stickers, etc. and other residues or unauthorized work on airbag units can affect airbag function.
- Visually inspect all deployment doors (predetermined break points) of airbag units for cracks or mechanical damage. If cracked or damaged, replace the airbag unit.

Additional safety precautions for curtain airbag

- Replace damaged pillar trim always; never repair.
- Curtain airbags must not be kinked or twisted.
- After repairs to bodywork, check area of curtain airbag for weld splatter, deformations and chafing areas (compare with opposite side if necessary).
- If a deployed curtain airbag is replaced, headliner, door seals with weather-stripping, curtain airbag guides, grab handle brackets and A, B, C, and if equipped, D-pillar trim must be replaced. If damaged, rear interior lights, roof grab handles and roof close-out moulding must be replaced.