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.
Disabling/Enabling The Front Passenger Airbag (USA/Can Only)
Under normal conditions, information from the occupant weight sensor (OWS) system (7/93) determines whether the supplemental restraint system module (SRS) (4/9) will disable or enable the front passenger airbag (8/124). The occupant weight sensor (OWS) is in constant communication with the supplemental restraint system module (SRS) via an internal CAN network. If the front passenger seat has an occupant whose weight exceeds a certain limit value, the occupant weight sensor (OWS) informs the supplemental restraint system module (SRS) of such. The control module software then enables the front passenger airbag, giving it full functionality in the event of a collision. The supplemental restraint system module (SRS) then also deactivates the passenger airbag warning lamp (PAD) (10/22).
If the weight in the passenger seat front is below a certain level, the Occupant weight sensor (OWS) will inform the Supplemental restraint system module (SRS) about thins. Then the control module's software deactivates airbag passenger front, which means that the airbag remains inactive in case of a collision. Supplemental restraint system module (SRS) also lights warning light airbag passenger (PAD).
The front passenger airbag switch and occupant weight sensor (OWS) must not both be installed in the vehicle.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.