GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 44298 Driver Air Bag Removal Tool

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 640349  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.

  1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System .
  2. On back side of steering wheel are 4 openings for removing the inflator module.
  3. Turn the steering wheel until 2 of the openings are on top.
  4. Adjust and install J 44298 into 2 of the holes.
  5. Important: Seat the air bag removal tool all the way in to perform properly.

  6. Push the handle back towards the I/P releasing the 2 spring loaded fasteners at the same time.
  7. Turn the steering wheel and repeat the same steps for the other 2 openings.
  8. Pull the inflator module gently away from the steering wheel.

  9. 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.

  10. Remove the connector position assurance (CPA) and the inflator module electrical connector.
  11. Remove the horn contact lead.
  12. Remove the inflator module.
  13. 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, Shipping, and Scrapping .

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 294362  Size: SH
  1. Install the horn contact lead.
  2. Install the inflator module electrical connector and the CPA.
  3. Important: Route the inflator module wires, the redundant control wires, and the horn wires correctly.

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