What is the first step in de-energizing a vehicle airbag?

De-energizing a vehicle airbag involves ensuring that the airbag system is completely safe to work on, which is why the first step is to disconnect the battery. Disconnecting the battery removes electrical power from the airbag system and prevents any accidental deployment while repairs or servicing are being performed. This step is crucial for the safety of both the technician and any passengers in the vehicle.

After the battery is disconnected, the subsequent steps can be taken safely, such as grounding the solenoid or removing components like the cartridge or primer. These steps should only be carried out once the power source has been safely removed to avoid serious injury from an unexpected airbag deployment.