Driver-Side Air Bag Module Removal [Two-Step Deployment Control System]

WARNING:

• Handling the driver-side air bag module improperly can accidentally operate (deploy) the air bag module, which may seriously injure you. Read the air bag system service warnings and cautions before handling the driver-side air bag module. (See AIR BAG SYSTEM SERVICE WARNINGS [TWO-STEP DEPLOYMENT CONTROL SYSTEM] ). (See AIR BAG SYSTEM SERVICE CAUTIONS [TWO-STEP DEPLOYMENT CONTROL SYSTEM] ).
• Due to the adoption of 2-step deployment control in the driver-side air bag module, depending on the impact force, it is possible that inflator No. 2 might not deploy. In such cases, before disposing of the air bag module, make sure to follow the inflator deployment procedures and verify complete deployment of inflators No. 1 and 2.

NOTE:

• The driver-side air bag module engages with the snap springs of the driver-side air bag module and the tabs of the steering wheel.

Fig 1: Identifying Driver-Side Air Bag Module Snap Springs And Steering Wheel Tabs

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

1. Switch the ignition off.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable and wait for 1 min or more. (See NEGATIVE BATTERY CABLE DISCONNECTION/CONNECTION ).
3. Verify the service hole on the back side of the steering wheel shown in the figure.
   Fig 2: Identifying Service Hole On Steering Wheel Back Side

   Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
4. Insert the tool into the service hole.

   Recommended tool 

   • Phillips driver (diam. 6)
   Fig 3: Inserting Tool Into Steering Wheel Service Hole

   Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
5. Press the snap springs in the direction of the arrows shown in the figure and detach the tabs.
   Fig 4: Pressing Snap Springs

   Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
   NOTE:

   • While pressing the tool in the direction of arrow (1) shown in the figure, move the tool in the direction of arrow (2).
   Fig 5: Pressing Tool To Steering Wheel Service Hole

   Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
6. Remove the driver-side air bag module from the steering wheel.
   Fig 6: Removing Driver-Side Air Bag Module From Steering Wheel

   Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
7. Using a flathead screwdriver, lift the locking device carefully, however do not remove it.
   Fig 7: Lifting Locking Device Using Flathead Screwdriver

   Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
8. Disconnect the driver-side air bag module connectors.
9. Disconnect the horn switch connector.
10. Remove the driver-side air bag module.