If you’ve recently been involved in a collision or are performing maintenance on your vehicle’s airbag system, removing the driver airbag is a task that may come up. Whether you're sending it for repairs or replacing it with a new one, this guide will help you safely remove the airbag without causing damage to the system.
Important Safety Notice
Before starting, remember that airbags are sensitive components of your vehicle's safety system. Improper handling can result in accidental deployment, leading to injury or additional repair costs. Always follow manufacturer recommendations and take the necessary precautions. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, consider having a professional mechanic handle the removal.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Socket wrench set
- Flathead screwdriver
- T-30 Torx bit (for some vehicles)
- Torque wrench (optional)
- Battery terminal wrench
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
To prevent accidental airbag deployment, it is crucial to disconnect the battery before working on the airbag system.
- Open your vehicle’s hood and use a battery terminal wrench to remove the negative terminal of the car battery.
- Wait for at least 10 to 15 minutes to ensure the airbag system’s capacitors fully discharge.
Step 2: Locate and Remove Airbag Mounting Bolts
Airbags are typically mounted to the steering wheel using a series of bolts or screws.
- Turn the steering wheel so the back of the wheel is accessible.
- Look for bolt covers or small access holes on the back of the steering wheel, usually marked with a symbol or plastic cover. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove any plastic covers.
- Use the T-30 Torx bit or appropriate tool to remove the bolts securing the airbag. Set these bolts aside in a safe place for reinstallation later.
Step 3: Carefully Remove the Airbag Unit
Once the mounting bolts are removed, the airbag can be pulled from the steering wheel.
- Gently pull the airbag towards you, but do not disconnect it yet.
- You’ll notice several wires attached to the back of the airbag unit. These wires are for the airbag inflator and horn. They are color-coded, so take note of where each one is connected.
Step 4: Disconnect Airbag Connectors
- Disconnect the electrical connectors attached to the back of the airbag. Be sure to depress the locking tabs before pulling out the connectors to avoid damaging the pins.
- Once all the connectors are safely removed, you can now fully detach the airbag from the steering wheel.
Step 5: Store the Airbag Safely
If you plan to send the airbag for repair or replacement, store it properly:
- Always store the airbag with the cover facing up to avoid injury in the unlikely event of accidental deployment.
- Do not place any objects on or near the airbag unit.
Step 6: Reinstalling the Airbag
If you are reinstalling the airbag after repair:
- Reconnect the electrical connectors exactly as they were before.
- Place the airbag back in position on the steering wheel and secure it using the bolts removed earlier.
- Torque the bolts to manufacturer specifications (optional but recommended).
- Reconnect the negative terminal of the car battery and test your vehicle to ensure the airbag light is off.
Removing a driver airbag can seem like a daunting task, but by following these steps carefully, you can do it safely and efficiently. Remember to take your time, avoid rushing, and handle the airbag with care. If you're sending your airbag to MyAirbags for reset or repair, you'll be saving hundreds of dollars compared to replacing it with a new unit.
If you need your airbag module reset or seat belt repair after a collision, trust MyAirbags. We specialize in resetting airbag control modules and rebuilding seat belts to restore your vehicle’s safety system. Call or text us today at 888-779-9029 or Contact Us with any questions. Start your order today, and we’ll help you save money while keeping you safe on the road!