GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Caution: When you are carrying an undeployed inflator module:

   • Do not carry the inflator module by the wires or connector on the inflator module
   • Make sure the bag opening points away from you
When you are storing an undeployed inflator module, make sure the bag opening points away from the surface on which the inflator module rests. When you are storing a steering column, do not rest the column with the bag opening facing down and the column vertical. Provide free space for the air bag to expand in case of an accidental deployment. Otherwise, personal injury may result.


    Object Number: 513377  Size: SH
  1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System .
  2. Important: Removal of the passenger or the driver inflatable restraint side impact inflator module (seat side air bag) uses the same procedure.

  3. Move the seat to the full forward position.
  4. Remove the seat back panel cover (2) from the seat (1) by lifting up the bottom of the panel and pulling the bottom away from the seat in order to release the hook retainers.
  5. Removal of the seat back panel (2) will expose the fasteners that attach side air bag to seat (1).


    Object Number: 457186  Size: SH

    Important: Do not remove the center fastener from the side impact module inflator. If the center fastener is removed this could cause the side air bag to deploy improperly, or unnecessary air bag system repairs.

  6. Remove the 2 fasteners (1) from the inflatable restraint side impact inflator module (top and bottom fasteners only).

  7. Object Number: 457188  Size: MH
  8. Remove the inflatable restraint side impact inflator module (1) from the seat (2).
  9. Remove the Connector Position Assurance (CPA) (4) from the inflatable restraint side impact inflator module electrical connector (5).
  10. Disconnect the electrical connector (5) from the inflatable restraint side impact inflator module (1).

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 457188  Size: MH

    Important: After a deployment or replacement, both retainer fasteners (3,6) must be replaced in order to ensure the proper inflator module positioning.

  1. Install a new inflatable restraint retainer.
  2. Push in the fastener (6) to the inflatable restraint side impact inflator module (1) when replacing the module.

  3. Install a new retainer fastener (3) to the seat (2) when replacing the module.
  4. Connect the electrical connector (5) to the inflatable restraint side impact inflator module (1).
  5. Install the Connector Position Assurance (CPA) (4) to the inflatable restraint side impact inflator module electrical connector (5).
  6. Install the inflatable restraint side impact inflator module (1) to the seat (2).

  7. Object Number: 457186  Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  8. Install the two fasteners (1) to the inflatable restraint side impact inflator module.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the inflatable restraint front seat module nuts to 9 N·m (80 lb in).


    Object Number: 513377  Size: SH
  10. Install the seat back panel (2) to the seat (1) by sliding the top of the panel up into place and pushing the bottom of the panel in and then down until the hook retainers are secure.
  11. Install the seat to the original position.
  12. Enable the SIR system. Refer to Enabling the SIR System .