Side Air Bag Module: Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Lincoln LS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
WARNING:
Always wear safety glasses when repairing an air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) vehicle and when handling an air bag module. This will reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accidental deployment.
WARNING:
Carry a live side air bag module with the air bag and tear seam pointed away from your body. This will reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accidental deployment.
WARNING:
Do not set a live side air bag module down on the cover tear seam. This will reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accidental deployment.
WARNING:
After deployment, the air bag surface can contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, a product of the gas generant combustion that is irritating to the skin. Wash your hands with soap and water afterwards.
WARNING:
Never probe the connectors on the air bag module. Doing so can result in air bag deployment, which can result in personal injury.
WARNING:
Side air bag modules with damaged covers must be replaced.
WARNING:
The restraint system diagnostic tool is for restraint system service only. Remove from vehicle prior to road use. Failure to remove could result in injury and possible violation of vehicle safety standards.
WARNING:
To reduce the risk of personal injury, do not use any memory saver devices.
NOTE:
The air bag warning lamp illuminates when the RCM fuse is removed and the ignition switch is ON. This is normal operation and does not indicate a supplemental restraint system (SRS) fault.
NOTE:
The SRS must be fully operational and free of faults before releasing the vehicle to the customer.
NOTE:
If a side air bag deployment took place a new seat back pad, trim cover, and side air bag module must be installed. Install a new seat back frame if necessary.
NOTE:
When installing a new side air bag after deployment, refer to SEATING
for additional information concerning the installation of a new side air bag.
NOTE:
Repair is made by installing a new part only. If the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and carry out the diagnostic procedure again.
NOTE:
Driver seat shown, passenger seat similar.
NOTE:
Seat side air bag module shown, seat side thorax air bag module similar. For additional information, refer to AIR BAG AND SAFETY BELT PRETENSIONER SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) in this article.
NOTE:
Seat with climate control and power lumbar shown, all others similar.
- Position the affected seat to the full forward and upright position.
- Depower the system. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING in the General Procedures portion of this article.
- Remove the seat backrest trim panel.
- Use an appropriate tool to release the 2 pin-type retainers at the lower bosses of the backrest trim panel.
- Push forward on the top of the backrest panel and slide it downward to release the upper hooks.
- Continue to push forward on the top of the backrest trim panel while rotating the bottom a few inches rearward to disengage the upper hook barbs.
- Release the trim cover J-clip over the climate control duct (if equipped).
- Disconnect the electrical connectors and separate all wire harness pin-type retainers from the lower seat back frame.
- If equipped with climate control seats remove the pin-type retainer from the climate control duct.
- If equipped with climate control seats remove the climate control duct.
- Detach all the seat back trim cover J-clips and pin-type retainers.
- Remove the side air bag module nut cover.
- Remove the side air bag module nuts.
- With one hand on the side air bag module, position the seat back trim cover and pad forward enough to access the side air bag module.
- Disconnect and remove the side air bag module.
CAUTION:
The backrest trim panel must be inspected for cracked or broken upper hooks and lower retainer bosses. Remove and discard the lower pin-type retainers before inspecting the lower trim panel bosses. If any hook or boss is damaged a new backrest trim panel must be installed. Always install new pin-type retainers when installing a backrest trim panel.
NOTE:
If installing a new side air bag module, use new retaining nuts. If the same side air bag module is to be reused then reuse the side air bag module nuts.