Airbag Control Module Removal Guide

How to Remove an SRS Unit From Your Vehicle:

Removing the SRS Unit from your vehicle may seem like a daunting task. However, with some basic tools and instructions, you’ll be able to perform this job on your own.

Things to Note: 

- The level of difficulty for this project will vary for each vehicle. If you have some basic tools, general mechanical inclination and the willpower to succeed, you can complete this task on your own. 

- If you are unwilling to remove the airbag module on your own, we strongly suggest that you visit your local automotive repair shop for assistance.

- The SRS Unit can have various interchangeable names, such as: SDM module, airbag control module, SRS module, and airbag computer.

Tools You Will Need:

In most cases, you will only be needing some basic shop tools to remove your airbag control module. This may include the following:

- Trim Removal Tools

- Varying Size Dockets and Wrenches

- Screwdrivers

- Screwdriver Bits

- Torx Bits

*We have seen some modules that are fastened to the vehicle with Torx Security Bolts. The bits to remove these can usually be found at your local hardware store.

Step 1: Determine the SRS Unit Location

Each vehicle make and model can have a varying location for the SRS unit. In most cases, the unit will be located in one of the following locations:

• Towards the front of the vehicle under the dashboard between the driver and passenger footwells
• Under the driver or passenger front seat
• In the center console between the two front seats.

An online search can prove to be helpful in determining where your SRS module is located. You may also try looking at a dealer parts website and check out the diagrams for the SRS components. The diagrams can give you an idea of where the airbag module is located.

If you still cannot determine the SRS module location, we recommend purchasing the manufacturers service manual guide. Depending on the vehicle, this can be a small investment that can save you a lot of time, for this project, and many others.

Don’t hesitate to contact us with questions. We work on resetting these SRS modules daily, so we may have some insight on where yours in particular is located.

Step 2: Disconnect the Battery

Disconnect the negative and positive cables from the battery and wait at least 3-5 minutes before beginning the SRS Unit removal procedure.

*It is a standard industry practice to always have your battery disconnected when working with SRS components. There are various sensors in your vehicle that are constantly reading different inputs and sending information to the airbag control module.

Removing or handling SRS components while the battery is connected can trigger accidental airbag or seat belt deployment. 

Step 3: Remove the Trim

Depending on your particular vehicle and the SRS module location, there will be an assortment of trim pieces you need to remove to access the airbag control module.

Be sure to use your trim removal tools here. We recommend to wear gloves and be careful not to scratch or damage the trim.

There may be hidden screws or bolts that need to come out before prying out certain trim components. Pay attention and notice the location of plastic retainers and clips. It may be helpful to consult parts diagrams online to see if there are any screws or bolts holding in the trim.

Step 4: Unplug the SRS Unit

Once you have access to the SRS Unit, you can begin to removal procedure. Verify that the battery is disconnected and that there is no power running to the module!

Unplug the connectors going into the module. There will usually be more than one connector depending on the module style. Make note of where each connector plugs into.

*Some connectors may have security tabs that need to be disengaged before unplugging them.

Once the connectors are unplugged, you may begin to unbolt the airbag control module from the frame/body of the vehicle.

Be careful not to drop it or mishandle it once it is out.

Step 5: Send the SRS Unit in for a Reset

The hard part is now over! Get ready to send your airbag control module to our facility! We’ll clear the crash data with our proprietary module reset software and bring it back to factory condition.

In most cases, installation of the SRS Unit will be in the reverse order of removal.

Before reconnecting the battery, make sure all defective SRS components are replaced and properly installed. Make sure the SRS Unit is properly grounded and secured to the vehicle with the proper bolts.

Here is a guide on How to Remove your SRS Unit if you also need to send it in for a reset.