FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Post Collision Repairs


If SRS deployment has occurred, the air bag module, contact unit, control module or control module, front sensors and seat belt pre-tensioner(s), if equipped, must be replaced. The SRS wiring circuit, sensor brackets, steering wheel, steering column bracket, steering shaft, knee bolster and cable should be inspected for damage and replaced as necessary.
Wear safety goggles and protective gloves during removal of a deployed air bag. Place air bag in a tightly sealed plastic bag. The sealed plastic bag should then be placed with automotive scrap. Vehicle interior and A/C, vent, defroster and heater ducts should be vacuumed.
The air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, a by-product of the gas generated during deployment. Because sodium hydroxide is irritating to the skin, wash your hands in mild soap solution and lukewarm water after handling a detonated air bag. If sinus or throat irritation is encountered during air bag removal, exit vehicle and breathe fresh air. If skin irritation is encountered, flush effected area with cool water. If sinus, throat, skin or any other type of irritation continues, consult a physician.