Passenger Air Bag Module: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Ford Pickup, 2005 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2005 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2005 Ford Cab & Chassis. 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.

WARNING: Carry a live air bag module with the air bag and deployment door 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 air bag module down with the deployment door face down.

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: Air bag modules with discolored or damaged deployment doors must be replaced, not repainted.

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: Repair is made by replacement only. If a part is replaced and the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and perform the diagnostic procedure again.

Depower the system. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING in this article.
Open the glove compartment. Disconnect the passenger air bag module electrical connector.

Fig 1: Locating Passenger Air Bag Module Electrical Connector
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Through the glove box opening, remove the passenger air bag module retaining nuts and bolts.

Fig 2: Removing Passenger Air Bag Module Retaining Nuts And Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the passenger air bag module.
1. Using a 3/8-inch x 4-inch flat head screwdriver, or equivalent, carefully slide the head of the screwdriver under the right bottom edge of the door and lift upward, separating the door from the clip. Separate the rest of the door from the clips by lifting the door with your hands.
2. Remove the passenger air bag module.
  
  Fig 3: Removing Passenger Air Bag Module
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.