Air Bag Deactivation Switch: Service and Repair

WARNING: IN THE EVENT OF AN AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT, THE PASSENGER AIRBAG ON/OFF SWITCH "MUST" BE REPLACED.

REMOVAL
1. Remove wheel center cap and six nuts to left rear wheel and tire assembly.
2. Remove seven fasteners to inner rear splash shield.
3. Disconnect and isolate negative battery cable.

CAUTION: WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE ENERGY RESERVE CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PROCEEDING.

4. Using a paperclip or small tool, remove the headlamp knob by inserting into the bottom of the headlamp knob. Push up with the tool and gently pull rearward until the lock tab releases the knob. Be careful not to break locking tab.
5. Remove five screws to drivers side knee blocker.
6. Remove two screws to steering column upper and lower shrouds. Remove shrouds.
7. Tilt steering wheel down to the lowest position, using the tilt lever.
8. Using a wrench, remove the tilt lever.
9. Install tape over left and right A-pillars to prevent damage to the A-pillar surfaces.
10. Remove five screws to passenger side knee blocker.
11. Using a trim stick (special tool #C-4755), gently pry up on center instrument panel bezel.
12. Disconnect the cigar lighter, power window switches, and rear window defogger (if equipped) wire connectors.
13. Remove eight screws to instrument panel bezel (fascia), and with a trim stick, gently pry rearward.
14. Disconnect instrument panel dimmer and passenger airbag ON/OFF switch wire connectors.
15. Remove instrument panel bezel.

Passenger Airbag ON/OFF Switch Location:

16. With bezel on bench, turn over so rear of bezel is facing up. Remove the three screws securing the ON/OFF switch to the instrument panel bezel and remove.

INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.

NOTE: Do not connect the battery negative cable at this time. Refer to Airbag System Diagnosis and Testing for system test procedures.