eschapiro
05-23-2011, 04:28 PM
Well, when I wanted to do it, although I found a few references, I was not able to actually achieve it, and ended paying someone to do it. Because of the destiny, I needed to take it off again later, and decided to write this writeup, just in case someone needed clearer directions.
Sorry foy any language flaws; I'm not a native english speaker.
Tools Needed:
- Philips Screwdriver
- Patience.
I read all around the web that one must insert a screwdriver (my Bentley manual says an allen key) at about 90 degrees against the sterring wheel sides, into the small holes in the leather. I found the hard (expensive) way that it was far from perpendicular, and that's why I never was able to do it myself in the first time. The screwdriver must be inserted vertically from bottom UP, as the picture shows. Once one side is lose, go for the second side.
http://www.tecnomall.net/SHARE/Airbag_Removal.jpg
Here you can see the tool inserted in the right side, vertically.
You will understand much clearly how to remove it in the next picture.
Next, you'll see the retaining clips (red arrows), which have to be slightly bent to the center, in order to release the steel posts behing the airbag. Most of the time doing it right will allow the airbag to self popping out, or a slight force will be needed at most. Then do it again in the other side and you are almost done.
http://www.tecnomall.net/SHARE/S_Wheel_WO_AIRBAG-ZOOM.jpg
You will see my many marks in the wheel, because of my first attempts while I was trying to insert the tool perpendicular to the steering wheel.
Finally, you'll have to carefully disconnect the connector from the airbag, which inserts into the Slip Ring (Steering wheel), in order to take the airbag out (See next picture, red arrow LEFT).
http://www.tecnomall.net/SHARE/Connector-Front.jpg
It is adviced to disconnect the (-) battery terminal before doing this procedure, to lower the risk of having the airbag exploding.
GOOD LUCK!!
Sorry foy any language flaws; I'm not a native english speaker.
Tools Needed:
- Philips Screwdriver
- Patience.
I read all around the web that one must insert a screwdriver (my Bentley manual says an allen key) at about 90 degrees against the sterring wheel sides, into the small holes in the leather. I found the hard (expensive) way that it was far from perpendicular, and that's why I never was able to do it myself in the first time. The screwdriver must be inserted vertically from bottom UP, as the picture shows. Once one side is lose, go for the second side.
http://www.tecnomall.net/SHARE/Airbag_Removal.jpg
Here you can see the tool inserted in the right side, vertically.
You will understand much clearly how to remove it in the next picture.
Next, you'll see the retaining clips (red arrows), which have to be slightly bent to the center, in order to release the steel posts behing the airbag. Most of the time doing it right will allow the airbag to self popping out, or a slight force will be needed at most. Then do it again in the other side and you are almost done.
http://www.tecnomall.net/SHARE/S_Wheel_WO_AIRBAG-ZOOM.jpg
You will see my many marks in the wheel, because of my first attempts while I was trying to insert the tool perpendicular to the steering wheel.
Finally, you'll have to carefully disconnect the connector from the airbag, which inserts into the Slip Ring (Steering wheel), in order to take the airbag out (See next picture, red arrow LEFT).
http://www.tecnomall.net/SHARE/Connector-Front.jpg
It is adviced to disconnect the (-) battery terminal before doing this procedure, to lower the risk of having the airbag exploding.
GOOD LUCK!!