GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Buick 🢒 2000 🢒 Regal 🢒 Body and Accessories 🢒 Wiring Systems 🢒 Steering Wheel Inflatable Restraint Module Replacement

Tools Required

J 44298 Driver Air Bag Removal Tool

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: 640349 Size: SH
  1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System .
  2. On back side of steering wheel there are four openings/holes for removing the inflator module.
  3. Turn the steering wheel until two of the opening/holes are on top.
  4. Adjust and install the J 44298 into two of the holes.

    5. Important: The air bag removal tool must be seated all the way in to perform properly.

  5. Push the handle back towards the IP releasing the two spring loaded fasteners at the same time.
  6. Turn the steering wheel and repeat the same steps for the other two opening/holes.
  7. Pull the inflator module gently away from the steering wheel.

    8. Object Number: 294362 Size: SH

    Important: Note the inflator module wire routing positions, the redundant control routing positions, and the horn wire routing positions for the correct re-assembly.

  8. Remove the connector position assurance (CPA) and the inflator module electrical connector.
  9. Remove the horn contact lead.
  10. Remove the inflator module.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 294362 Size: SH
  1. Install the horn contact lead.
  2. Install the inflator module electrical connector and CPA.

    3. Important: Route the inflator module wires, the redundant control wires, and the horn wires correctly.

  3. Align the inflator module fasteners to the steering column fastener holes.
  4. Push the inflator module firmly into the steering column so that the fasteners engage.
  5. Enable the SIR system. Refer to Enabling the SIR System .