Auto Airbag System Repair: 95 camry 2.2L 4cyl, time allocations, airbag service


Question
I have an airbag/service related question on the above vehicle.  I'm not having any problem & the SRS light isn't on other than the usual brief self test when starting the engine.  I noticed something on the sunvisor saying the airbag system needed some type of maintenance every 10 years and then every 2 years thereafter.  I couldn't find any more info in the owner's manual.  My main questions are what needs to be done & how much would it cost?  And also what would happen if I opted not to have the work done, ie would I not be protected in the event of a crash?  Any light you could shed on this would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Austin:

In the 20 + years I have been servicing airbags, you are only the second person to be aware of this recommendation and to ask this question.  
We have previously checked with multiple dealerships, service departments and tech support contacts only to be given a definitive "There is no procedure" answer.
All of the dealerships we contacted had no formal service inspection other than the procedure you described.  Some began to ramble about how they would remove each component and inspect it visually for defects, but there were no time allocations in their service guide or industry standard for doing so.

Even worse, many car companies stop manufacturing components after 10 years, so if there is a problem with a component, there is nothing they can do about it, aside from purchasing a used part (illegal in many states).

My suggestion to you is to be aware of your vehicle just as you are, make the call to your dealer and pose the question to them.  I would be VERY INTERESTED in the answer they give you.

Please contact me directly through my company when you hear back at dgan@airbagsolutions.com

Thanks for asking this important question
Doug