How To Remove An Airbag Module

Learn how to safely disconnect and remove an airbag module from a vehicle with our how to guide.

We will assume that you know what an airbag module is but below is a picture of a typical airbag control unit which is also referred to as an airbag ECU or SRS ECU.

Firstly, you need to disconnect the vehicles negative battery lead, this will usually be marked with a negative symbol  −

Then locate the airbag module which will usually be bolted to the vehicle floor under the centre console and carpet near the handbrake and gear levers. Locations do vary from vehicle to vehicle but by removing a few trims you can usually locate it fairly easily. If you cannot find the module then a telephone call to your local main dealer parts department should give you the answer.

Once you have found the module remove all trims so you can access the module retaining bolts. In some cases you may need to cut the carpet with a sharp knife but only cut the carpet where it is concealed from view and where it will not alter the shape or fitment of the carpet.

Now unbolt the retaining bolts to release the module.

When the module is free, lift it enough to be able to disconnect the plug. The wiring loom connector will usually be secured by some form of securing tab so becareful not to break the connector whilst releasing the tab and plug.

With the module disconnected you may now take it completely out.

Most cars will start and drive without the airbag module although a few models will not. Usually starting the vehicle without the airbag module will not affect other vehicle systems and it may be driven for repair or loading / unloading purposes.

If any other warning lights do appear then after the vehicle is repaired you should perform a global fault code erase procedure which will erase fault codes in all the ECU's on the vehicle.

It goes without saying that the vehicle should not be used on the public highway without a functioning airbag system.

Fitting an Airbag Module

You should refit the module in reverse order of removal ensuring that the veicles battery negative lead is disconnected before starting work on the vehicle and also never leave an airbag control module loose.

To avoid accidental detonation of airbags, control modules and crash sensors should always be bolted down before the battery is reconnected or power is supplied to the system.

Also, never knock or hammer near a crash sensor or airbag module with the ignition on or battery connected as this too can cause accidental detonation of airbags.

Removing Crash Data in The Airbag Module

With the module removed you can safely post the item for crash data removal and airbag resetting.

They are very robust and you shouldn't worry about damage being caused in transit. A padded post bag or small box with bubble wrap is adequate protection whilst it's in the postal system.

You can order airbag module resetting and crash data clearing here.