Service Precautions

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1995 Lexus SC 400 and 1995 Lexus SC 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Observe the following precautions when working on SRS:

Before servicing any SRS or steering column component, disable SRS. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Failure to disable system could result in accidental air bag deployment and personal injury.
When troubleshooting SRS, always check for diagnostic codes before disconnecting battery.
After ignition switch is turned to LOCK position and negative battery cable is disconnected, wait at least 90 seconds before working on SRS. SRS is equipped with a back-up power source that may allow air bag to deploy within 90 seconds of disconnecting negative battery cable.
In a minor collision in which air bags do not deploy, front air bag sensors and steering wheel pad must be inspected.
NEVER use air bag parts from another vehicle. Replace air bag parts with new parts.
Remove air bag sensors if shocks are likely to be applied to sensors during repairs.
Center air bag sensor assembly contains mercury. After replacement, DO NOT destroy the old part. When scrapping vehicle or replacing center air bag sensor assembly, remove center air bag sensor assembly and dispose of as toxic waste.
Never disassemble or repair system components. Replace cracked, dented or otherwise damaged system components.
DO NOT expose front air bag sensors, center air bag sensor assembly, steering wheel pad, passenger-side air bag or seat belt pretensioner to heat or flame.
When trouble shooting electrical circuits, use a Digital Volt/Ohmmeter (DVOM) with high impedance (10-k/ohm minimum).
Information labels are attached to air bag components. Follow all notices on labels.
After servicing SRS, check air bag warning light to ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
Always wear safety glasses when servicing or handling an air bag.
When placing a live air bag on a bench or other surface, always face air bag and trim cover up, away from surface. This will reduce motion of module if accidentally deployed.
After deployment, air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide which irritates skin. During clean-up, always wear safety glasses, rubber gloves and long-sleeved shirt. After clean-up, wash hands using mild soap and water.
When carrying a live air bag module, trim cover must be pointed away from your body to minimize injury in case of accidental deployment.
If SRS is not fully functional for any reason, vehicle should not be driven until system is repaired and again becomes operational. DO NOT remove bulbs, modules, sensors or other components or in any way disable system from operating normally. If SRS is not functional, park vehicle until it is repaired and functions properly.