Instruments and Switches

Service Precautions

WARNING
Some vehicles are equipped with an air bag system, also known as the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) system or Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). The system must be disabled before performing service on or around system components, steering column, instrument panel components, wiring and sensors. Failure to follow safety and disabling procedures could result in accidental air bag deployment, possible personal injury and unnecessary system repairs.

CAUTION
Many systems require special tools or equipment to service the (SIR/SRS) system. If you are unfamiliar with these systems or do not have the proper training and equipment you should not attempt to remove or disconnect the (SIR/SRS) components.

WARNING
Refer to manufacturers SIR Service Precautions and procedures before disabling / enabling the SIR system.

• The Air Bag system must be disarmed before repair and/or removal of any component in its immediate area including the air bag itself.
• Failure to do so may cause accidental deployment of the air bag, resulting in unnecessary system repairs and/or personal injury.

WARNING
Work on Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) system or Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) systems should be performed by qualified service technicians.

WARNING
When you are performing service on or near the sir components or the sir wiring, you must disable the SIR system. Refer to the manufacture's sir disable/enable procedure. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause air bag deployment, personal injury, or unnecessary SIR system repairs.

WARNING
When carrying a live inflator module (air bag), make sure the bag and trim cover are pointed away from you.

• Never carry inflator module (air bag) by the wires or connector on the underside of the module. In case of an accidental deployment, the bag will deploy with minimal chance of injury. When placing a live inflator module (air bag) on a bench or other surface, always face bag and trim cover up, away from the surface.
• Never rest a steering column assembly on the steering wheel with the inflator module (air bag) face down and column vertical. This is necessary so that a free space is provided to allow the inflator module (air bag) to expand in the unlikely event of accidental deployment. Otherwise, personal injury could result.

CAUTION
Safety precautions must be followed when handling a deployed inflator module (air bag). After deployment, the inflator module (air bag) surface may contain a small amount of sodium hydroxide, a by-product of the deployment reaction, that is irritating to the skin and eyes. Most of the powder on the inflator module (air bag) is harmless. As a precaution, wear gloves and safety glasses when handling a deployed inflator module (air bag), and wash your hands with mild soap and water afterwards.

WARNING
In the event deployment has occurred inspect coil assembly wire and driver inflator module for any signs of scorching melting or other damage due to excessive heat If the coil or inflator module has been damaged, replace it.