Side Airbag Module: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Subaru Forester. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Refer to "CAUTION" of "General Description" before handling the airbag module. < Refer to CAUTION , General Description. >

NOTE: Remove the passenger's side by referring to driver's side.

Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
Disconnect the ground cable from battery and wait for at least 60 seconds before starting work.
Remove the front seat from vehicle. < Refer to REMOVAL , Front Seat. >
Remove the clip from reverse side of seat cushion assembly and slide rail, and then remove the side airbag harness.
Remove the side airbag harness from backrest frame assembly.
Remove the plastic fastener at the back side (bottom) of backrest.

Fig 1: Removing Plastic Fastener At Back Side (Bottom) Of Backrest
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Open the fastener at the rear side of backrest.

Fig 2: Opening Backrest Rear Side Fastener
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the hog rings of backrest cover.
CAUTION: Be careful not to tear the vinyl inside the seat when removing the hog rings. If torn, replace with a new part.

Fig 3: Identifying Backrest Cover Hog Rings
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the pad (A), and remove the mounting nut from the side airbag module.

Fig 4: Identifying Side Airbag Module Pad
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the side airbag harness from backrest frame assembly.