Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Buick Regal and 2004 Buick Century. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Refer to SIR Caution in Cautions and Notices.

CAUTION: Refer to SIR Inflator Module Handling and Storage Caution in Cautions and Notices.

Disable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling Zone 3 .
If the vehicle is equipped with a tilt steering column, lower the steering wheel.
On the back side of steering wheel are 4 openings for removing the driver inflator module.
Turn the steering wheel until 2 of the openings are on the top.

Fig 1: Releasing Module Mounting Posts From Retainer

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Adjust and install J 44298 into the 2 openings. See Special Tools and Equipment .

IMPORTANT: Seat the air bag removal tool all the way in to perform properly.

Push the handle back towards the I/P, releasing the 2 spring loaded fasteners at the same time.
Turn the steering wheel and repeat the same steps for the other 2 openings.

Fig 2: Locating Driver Inflator Module Components

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Pull the driver inflator module gently away from the steering wheel.

IMPORTANT: Note the inflator module wire routing positions, the redundant control routing positions, and the horn wire routing positions for correct assembly.

Remove the connector position assurance (CPA) (4) and the inflator module electrical connector.
Rotate the horn contact lead (2) counterclockwise 1/4 turn. The lead is located in the center of the steering wheel column. Remove the horn contact lead from the steering column.
Remove the inflatable restraint steering wheel module (5).
Fully deploy the module before disposal. If the module was replaced under warranty, fully deploy and dispose of the module after the required retention period. Refer to Inflator Module Handling and Scrapping .