Remote Deployment Of Side Curtain AIR Bag Modules
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Mountaineer and 2004 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
This procedure is to be used when a vehicle with a live side curtain air bag module is to be scrapped.
- Before proceeding, see AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See DISABLING SYSTEM under DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM.
- Remove C-pillar trim panel on same side as curtain air bag to be deployed. Cut and strip side curtain air bag harness wires near harness connector. Obtain 2 wires, 20 gauge minimum and each at least 20 feet long. Connect one end of each 20-foot wire to one end of each side curtain air bag wire. See Fig 1 .
- Remain at least 20 feet away from side curtain air bag. Deploy pretensioner by touching loose ends of both wires to 12-volt battery terminals. If successful, a loud noise will be heard. Allow at least 10 minutes for cooling before approaching air bag. Side curtain air bag is now inoperative. If side curtain air bag does not deploy, air bag is faulty. Contact vehicle manufacturer for further instructions on disposal procedures.