Mazda RX-8 Workshop Manual page 2914

causes, the crash zone sensor must be replaced with a new one even if the
used one does not have any visible external damage or deformation. If the
crash zone sensor is reused, the air bags and pre-tensioner seat belts may not
operate (deploy) normally, which could result in a serious accident. Always
replace the crash zone sensor with a new one. The crash zone sensor cannot be
bench-checked or self-checked.
Side Air Bag Sensor Handling
Removing the side air bag sensor or disconnecting the side air bag sensor
connector with the ignition switch at the ON position can activate the side air
bag sensor and operate (deploy) the side air bag, which may cause serious
injury. Before removing the side air bag sensor or disconnecting the side air
bag sensor connector, always turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position,
disconnect the negative battery cable, and then wait for 1 min or more to allow
the backup power supply of the SAS control module to deplete its stored power.
If the side air bag sensor is subjected to shock or the sensor is disassembled,
the side air bag may accidentally operate (deploy) and cause injury, or the
system may fail to operate normally and cause a serious accident. Do not
subject the side air bag sensor to shock or disassemble the sensor.
Because a sensor is built into the side air bag sensor, once the air bag has
operated (deployed) due to a collision or other causes, the side air bag sensor
must be replaced with a new one even if the used one does not have any visible
external damage or deformation. If the side air bag sensor is reused, the side
air bag may not operate (deploy) normally, which could result in a serious
accident. Always replace the side air bag sensor with a new one. The side air
bag sensor cannot be bench-checked or self-checked.
Pre-tensioner Seat Belt Inspection
Inspecting a pre-tensioner seat belt using a tester can operate (deploy) the
pre-tensioner seat belt, which may cause serious injury. Do not use a tester to
inspect a pre-tensioner seat belt. Always use the on-board diagnostic function
to diagnose the pre-tensioner seat belt for malfunctions.