Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Deployment Outside Vehicle (Steering Wheel Module, I/P Module, and Side Impact Module)
Deploy the inflator module outside of the vehicle when the vehicle will be returned to service. Situations that require deployment outside of the vehicle include the following:
- Using the SIR diagnostics, you determine that the inflator module is malfunctioning.
- The inflator module is cosmetically damaged (scratched or ripped).
- The inflator module pigtail (if equipped) is damaged.
- The inflator module connector is damaged.
- The inflator module connector terminals are damaged.
Deployment and disposal of a malfunctioning inflator module is subject to any required retention period.
Tools Required
- J 38826Β SIR Deployment Harness. See Special ToolsΒ .
- J 39401-BΒ SIR Deployment Fixture. See Special ToolsΒ .
- J 38826-25 Roof Rail Module Adapter
- J 38826-25 Side Impact Module Adapter
- J 38826-75 Steering Wheel Module Adapter
- J 38826-80 I/P Module Adapter
- Turn OFF the ignition.
- Remove the ignition key.
- Put on safety glasses.
- Remove the inflator module. Refer to the following:
- If you are removing the steering wheel module, refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module ReplacementΒ .
- If you are removing the instrument panel (I/P) module, refer to Inflatable Restraint Instrument Panel Module Replacement (Impala)Β or Inflatable Restraint Instrument Panel Module Replacement (Monte Carlo)Β .
- If you are removing a side impact module, refer to Inflatable Restraint Side Impact Module Replacement - Front (Monte Carlo)Β .
- If you are removing a roof rail module, refer to Inflatable Restraint Roof Rail Module Replacement (Impala)Β .
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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