Airbag Unit With Igniter: Removing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle, 2015 Volkswagen Beetle, 2014 Volkswagen Beetle, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

-- Disconnect the battery. Refer to BATTERY, DISCONNECTING AND CONNECTING .

-- Move the steering wheel to the lowest position.

-- Adjust steering wheel depth (reach) so it is in the fully extended position.

-- Turn the steering wheel to the position shown.

Fig 1: Identifying Retainers

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

-- Insert a screwdriver all the way into the hole on the back of the steering wheel.

-- Turn the screwdriver 90° -arrow A-.

-- This will release the retainers -1- in the direction of the -arrow B- for the airbag unit on the right side of the steering wheel.

NOTE: If it is not a multifunction steering wheel, then the airbag must be removed from the steering wheel bezel on the upper edge after actuating the lock.

-- Turn the steering wheel 180°.

-- Open the retainer for the airbag unit on the left side of the steering wheel, as described.

NOTE: If it is not a multifunction steering wheel, then the airbag must be removed from the steering wheel bezel on the upper edge after actuating the lock.

-- Turn the steering wheel back to its center position.

-- Loosen the airbag unit from the steering wheel.

WARNING: Electrostatic discharges can lead to unintended deployment of the airbag. Therefore the technician must discharge static electricity from the body before separating the ignition and ground wiring. This is done, for example, by briefly grasping the chassis or door striker.

-- Disconnect the airbag connector -1-.

Fig 2: Identifying Airbag Connector, Connector And Airbag Unit

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

-- Disconnect the connector -2-. This is necessary only on the multifunction steering wheel.

-- Connect the airbag connector -1- with the wiring harness to the back of the airbag unit -3-.