GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 44298 Driver Air Bag Removal Tool

Removal Procedure

    Caution: Refer to SIR Caution in the Preface section.

    Caution: Refer to SIR Inflator Module Handling and Storage Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 640349  Size: SH
  1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling .
  2. If the vehicle is equipped with a tilt steering column, lower the steering wheel.
  3. On the back side of steering wheel are 4 openings for removing the driver inflator module.
  4. Turn the steering wheel until 2 of the openings are on the top.

  5. Adjust and install J 44298 into the 2 openings.
  6. Important: Seat the air bag removal tool all the way in to perform properly.

  7. Push the handle back towards the I/P, releasing the 2 spring loaded fasteners at the same time.
  8. Turn the steering wheel and repeat the same steps for the other 2 openings.

  9. Object Number: 255209  Size: SH
  10. Pull the driver inflator module gently away from the steering wheel.
  11. Important: Note the inflator module wire routing positions, the redundant control routing positions, and the horn wire routing positions for correct assembly.

  12. Remove the connector position assurance (CPA) (4) and the inflator module electrical connector.
  13. Rotate the horn contact lead (2) counterclockwise ¼ turn. The lead is located in the center of the steering wheel column. Remove the horn contact lead from the steering column.
  14. Remove the inflatable restraint steering wheel module (5).
  15. 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 .

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 255209  Size: SH
  1. Press in and rotate the horn contact lead (2) clockwise ¼ turn.
  2. Install the inflator module electrical connector and the CPA (4).
  3. Route all wires correctly. Align the inflator module retainers to the steering wheel holes.
  4. Install the inflator module to the steering wheel by pushing on both sides of the inflator module until the retaining springs engage.
  5. Test the operation of the horn. It the horn doesn't work, remove the module and inspect the wire connection.
  6. Return the steering wheel to the original position.
  7. Enable the SIR system. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling .