Side Air Bag Module: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Monterey and 2004 Ford Freestar. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Before proceeding, see AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See DISABLING SYSTEM under DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM.
Remove appropriate front seat. See FRONT SEAT . Release recliner handle cover tab and remove cover. See Figure . Remove right front side shield screws, disconnect power seat switch connector, if equipped and remove side shield. Remove left front side shield screws and side shield. Separate side air bag module electrical connector and wire harness pin-type retainers from seat riser and cushion pan.
Separate climate control duct and disconnect seat back thermal electric device electrical connector, if equipped. Disconnect seat cushion heated seat element, if equipped. Remove seat back-to-seat track bolts and seat back. See Figure . Remove lumbar knob, if equipped. Remove armrest bolt cover, bolt, spring washer and armrest.
Remove assist handle cover, screws and handle, if equipped. Release seat back trim cover lower "J" clips. Place hand between seat back trim cover and pad, carefully separate velcro strips. Invert seat back trim cover in an inside out fashion to row of hog rings. Release side air bag module deployment chute clip.
WARNING: Accidental side air bag deployment possible. Personal injury may result. Electrical connector at side air bag module is a permanent connection. Do not disconnect electrical connector at side air bag module.
Separate side air bag module harness pin-type retainers. Note wire harness routing for reassembly reference. Remove side air bag module mounting nuts. Pulling seat back foam pad aside, remove side air bag module with wire harness.