Removing driver's airbag unit

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Porsche Macan and 2015 Porsche Macan. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Incorrect handling of airbag units

Triggering of airbag unit.
System faults can occur.

→ Switch off ignition and remove ignition key or remote control (hand-held transmitter).

→ A voltage supply (e.g. battery charger) must not be connected to the external power supply/jump-lead starting terminals.

→ Disconnect the battery and insulate the ground strap so that all contact with a ground carrier is avoided.

→ Wait 1 minute after disconnecting the battery.

→ Only pull off connector on the triggering unit after the waiting time has elapsed.

→ Make sure that no foreign objects are located in front of the airbag unit during installation.

→ Replace damaged parts during removal.

→ Always position airbag units so that the blow-out opening is facing upwards, e.g. crest on driver's airbag.

→ Do not position anything on the airbag units.

→ If removed for an extended period, the airbag units must be stored in a safe place.

→ Airbag units must not come into contact with grease, oil, detergents, liquids, or similar substances.

→ Do not expose airbag units to temperatures of more than 90°C.

→ Do not remove the short-circuit spring on the plug-in contacts.

→ Ignition and preparations may only be carried out by skilled staff, supervised by a second responsible person.

→ Before disposal, the airbag unit must be rendered harmless by electrical ignition performed in accordance with all precautionary measures, thereby preventing it from being used incorrectly.

Information

Overview for positioning the release springs -2- . Use release tool -1- (a T25 Torx with handle or a medium screwdriver).

Courtesy of PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release airbag unit.
1. 1.1. Push release tool -1- in parallel to the steering wheel until the spring can be felt.
  Information
  
  Make sure not to press the release tool too far towards the steering-column switch because if you do, the spring will not work.
2. 1.2. Press the spring in fully using the release tool and pull the airbag unit -2- out slightly.
3. 1.3. Repeat the procedure on the other side of the steering wheel.
Courtesy of PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Pull the airbag unit out of the steering wheel.

Courtesy of PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Release electric plug connections -1, 2- in direction of arrow -a- and disconnect them -A- .

Courtesy of PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.