Driver Air Bag Module: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Ford Taurus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Prior to reinstalling a previously removed driver air bag module, make sure to correctly position the wire clip that retains the driver air bag module to the steering wheel. Failure to follow this instruction will result in incorrect installation of the driver air bag module and increases the risk of serious personal injury or death in a crash.

NOTE: Make sure that the wire clips are positioned and attached correctly to the steering wheel. If any components are damaged, a new steering wheel must be installed.

NOTE: The illustration shows correctly positioned wire clips.

Fig 1: Identifying Steering Wheel Wire Clips Correct Position

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Make sure the wire clips are correctly positioned to the steering wheel.

NOTE: The illustration shows incorrectly positioned wire clips.

Fig 2: Identifying Steering Wheel Wire Clips Incorrect Position

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

If the wire clips are not correctly positioned in any of the 10 attachment points, reposition the wire clips as necessary.
Connect the 2 driver air bag module electrical connectors.

Fig 3: Locating Driver Air Bag Module Electrical Connectors Retaining Tabs
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Inspect the wire clips for correct position before installing the driver air bag module. Failure to follow this instruction may result in component failure.

NOTE: Steering wheel rear cover omitted for clarity.

Install the driver air bag module:
- Push the driver air bag module until the wire clips are fully engaged to the driver air bag module attachment pins.
- Verify that the driver air bag module wire clips are fully engaged to the steering wheel.
  - Using a mirror, viewing from the back of the steering wheel, verify that the wire clips are in the correct position as shown in the illustration.
    
    Fig 4: Installing Driver Air Bag Module
    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Pull firmly on each corner of the driver air bag module to make sure that the wire clips are fully engaged to the driver air bag module attachment pins.

Fig 5: Locating Corner Of Driver Air Bag Module
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the upper and lower steering column shrouds.
- Install and tighten the 3 screws.
Install the steering column opening trim panel and 2 screws.
Repower the SRS. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING .
Verify that the horn operates by pushing each corner of the driver air bag module.
If the horn does not operate, remove the driver air bag module and check the following:
1. Check that each horn contact is in the correct position in the steering wheel armature.
2. Check that the steering wheel switches connector is connected to the clockspring assembly.
3. Check that the horn wire connectors in the upper RH of the steering wheel armature are connected.
  - If the 3 items are OK, check the horn for faults. For additional information, refer to HORN SYSTEM article.