Technician Safety Information

Certain vehicles include a driver's side airbag or a driver's and passenger's airbag, located in the steering wheel hub (driver's) or the dash on the passenger side (passenger's), as part of a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) . Servicing, disassembling or replacing these items (including the ETRs) will require special caution and tools and should therefore be done by a properly trained technician.

WARNING: To avoid rendering the SRS inoperative, which can lead to personal injury or death in the event of a severe frontal collision, all maintenance must be performed by a properly trained technician.
Improper maintenance, including incorrect removal and installation of the SRS, can lead to personal injury caused by unintentional activation of the airbag.
All SRS electrical wiring harnesses are covered with yellow outer insulation, and related components are located in the steering column, center console, dash, and front fenders. Do not use electrical test equipment on these circuits.

Prior to disconnecting any SRS electrical connectors, servicing any system components or other components located near an air bag system electrical connector, the system must be disarmed. Refer to Air Bag System Disarming and Arming. Wait 10 minutes before starting any repairs. This is necessary to allow the system's back-up power supply to discharge.

Always observe the following safety measures when working on the air bag system:
1. SRS components must not be opened or repaired. Always install new components.
2. If air bag module, crash sensor or control module have been dropped from a height of 18 inches or more, do not install that component into vehicle. It must be replaced.
3. Always replace damaged SRS components.
4. Do not paint air bag module to correct cosmetic flaws. It must be replaced.
5. Do not leave an undeployed air bag module unattended if work is interrupted. Install into vehicle as soon as unit is removed from packaging.
6. Always store a removed air bag module with pad facing upwards.
7. Air bag module must not be exposed to oil, grease, or cleaning solutions.
8. Do not expose air bag module to temperatures above 195°F for even brief periods during a repair process. Keep unit clear of all heat sources.
9. Remove any SRS component prior to performing repair or welding procedures in area of that component.
10. Do not use electrical test equipment or analog ohmmeters on the air bag module.
11. Do not expose sensors, wiring or other SRS components to heat guns, welding or spray guns.
12. The SRS wiring should not be spliced, soldered or repaired. If wiring or connectors are found to be damaged or worn, that wiring harness should be replaced. When replacing the harness, ensure it is properly routed and all electrical connectors are securely installed.
13. Storage, transportation and disposal of air bag modules are subject to the laws for flammable solids.
14. Deployed air bag modules do not have to be disposed of as a hazardous waste, but may be included with automotive metal scrap for recycling.
15. Thoroughly wash hands after handling a deployed air bag module.

When handling a deployed air bag assembly, a face shield and rubber gloves should be worn. Vehicle interior and HVAC ducts should be vacuumed. If sinus or throat irritation is encountered during air bag removal, exit vehicle and breathe fresh air. If skin irritation is encountered, flush affected area with cool water. If any type of irritation continues, consult a physician. Wash hands and rinse thoroughly with water after handling a deployed air bag assembly.

Place tape over exhaust vents prior to air bag removal. After unit has been removed, it should be placed in a heavy duty plastic bag, sealed securely, then placed with automotive scrap. To dispose of an undeployed air bag assembly, contact Mercedes-Benz.