GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

    Caution: This vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause the following conditions:

       • Air bag deployment
       • Personal injury
       • Unnecessary SIR system repairs
    In order to avoid the above conditions, observe the following guidelines:
       • Refer to SIR Component Views in order to determine if you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring.
       • If you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring, disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System.

    Important: In the event of deployment, inspect the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) coil for assembly wire for any signs of scorching, melting or other damage due to excessive heat. If there is excessive damage to coil assembly, replace the coil assembly.

  1. Disable the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR). Refer to Disabling the SIR System .

  2. Object Number: 463032  Size: SH

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  3. Remove the mounting bolt hole caps
  4. Loosen the steering wheel inflator module TORX® bolts completely.

  5. Object Number: 488408  Size: SH

    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.

  6. Remove the steering wheel inflator module from the steering wheel.
  7. Fully deploy the module before disposal. If the module was replaced under warranty, fully deploy and dispose of the module after the required retention period. Refer to Inflator Module Handling and Scrapping .
  8. Remove the inflatable restraint yellow 2-way connector and the horn connector from the steering wheel.

  9. Object Number: 463054  Size: SH
  10. Disconnect the yellow 2-way connector (1) from the inflatable restraint and the horn connector (3) from the inflator module coil connectors on the upper steering wheel.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 488408  Size: SH
  1. Connect the yellow 2-way connector and the horn connector to the inflator module coil connectors on the upper steering wheel.
  2. Install the yellow 2-way connector and the horn connector in the steering wheel.
  3. Install the inflator module to the steering wheel taking care so that no part of the wire harness is caught between the module and the steering wheel.
  4. Ensure uniform clearance between and steering wheel and the module all the way around.
  5. 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.

  6. Install the 2 TORX® bolts in order to secure the inflator module to the steering wheel.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 9 N·m (6.5 lb ft).

  8. Install the mounting bolt hole caps.
  9. Enable the SIR. Refer to Enabling the SIR System .