Safety Precautions, Airbag System

CAUTION

See also, individual service operations for additional safety precautions specific to each procedure.


Maintenance/servicing
^ testing, maintenance, and service work should only be carried out by trained technicians
^ always disconnect battery ground cable before beginning work on electrical system in general, and airbag system in particular. After disconnecting battery in airbag-equipped vehicle, wait 20 minutes while airbag system capacitor discharges, before working on airbag system
^ airbag unit must not be disassembled, and wiring must not be repaired. Replace only, with new parts
^ when removed, do not place airbag unit face down on vinyl horn pad side. Always rest unit on its metal housing
^ airbag unit should be installed immediately after removing from storage. If work is interrupted, do not leave airbag unit unattended
^ airbag unit must not be treated with grease, cleaning solvents, or the like, and should not be exposed to temperatures above 90~C (194~F), even briefly

Testing
^ never use test lamp on airbag system. Use only diagnostic test unit VAG 1551 (along with multimeter US 1119 for specific testing required during VAG 1551 diagnostic sequence)
^ airbag system must only be electrically tested while installed in vehicle

Storing/transporting storage and transport of airbags is subject to rules governing explosive devices. Airbags should only be transported in original shipping packaging, and never transported or stored with other risk items (paint, flammables, other explosives, etc.)