Warning! Improper handling of the airbag module may result in unexpected deployment of the airbag and injury to the worker. Be sure to read the safety instructions when performing this work.
The Mazda 3 is equipped with a passive restraint system, which includes a driver airbag, a front passenger airbag, a side airbag, and a side curtain airbag. If the sequence of operations is not followed, the passive restraint system may unexpectedly deploy, resulting in an accident. If an error is made during the maintenance of the passive restraint system, the system may not perform its functions in a collision. Before performing maintenance (including removal or installation of elements, their inspection or replacement), read the following points carefully, and then perform the operations described in the repair manual.
You can start working 90 seconds after the ignition key is turned to the "LOCK" position and the wire is disconnected from the negative (–) terminal of the battery. (The passive safety system is equipped with a backup power source, so if you start working earlier than 90 seconds after disconnecting the wire from the negative (–) terminal of the battery, the passive safety system may operate.).
Do not expose the air bag modules in the horn button, instrument cluster, or air bag sensors directly to hot air or flame.
Caution: SRS symptoms are difficult to confirm, so diagnostic codes are the most important source of information when troubleshooting.
Even in cases of minor collisions where the passive restraint system does not deploy, check the airbag modules and sensors.
Before performing repairs, remove the airbag sensor to avoid damaging it.
Never use passive restraint system parts from another vehicle. Replace parts with new ones. Do not disassemble or repair air bag modules and sensors for reuse. If air bag modules and sensors have been dropped, have cracks, dents or other defects on the housings, brackets or connectors, replace them with new ones.
[The text of the article is taken from the website mazbook]
When troubleshooting electrical circuits in the system, use a high impedance volt/ohmmeter (not less than 10 kOhm/V).
The passive safety system components are provided with information labels. Follow the instructions on these labels.
After completing work on the passive safety system, check its hazard warning lamp. When the wire is disconnected from the negative (–) terminal of the battery, the clock and audio system memory is de-energized. Before starting work, write down the contents of the audio system memory. After completing all operations, restore the audio system settings and set the clock time. To prevent memory erasure in memory systems, never use an external backup power source.