Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Montego, 2005 Ford Freestyle, and 2005 Ford Five Hundred. 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: 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: 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: The SRS must be fully operational and free of faults before releasing the vehicle to the customer.

Depower the system. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING .
Gently pull outward to release the clips on the instrument panel center finish panel.

Fig 1: Releasing Clips On Instrument Panel
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the PAD indicator electrical connector.
Remove the 2 screws and remove the PAD indicator.

Fig 2: Disconnecting PAD Indicator Electrical Connector
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.
Repower the system. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING .