Side Airbag Module: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Subaru Outback and 2016 Subaru Legacy. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Refer to "CAUTION" of "General Description" before handling the airbag system components. < Ref. to CAUTION , General Description. >

Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
Disconnect the ground terminal from the battery sensor, and wait for at least 60 seconds before starting work. < Ref. to BATTERY , NOTE, Repair Contents. >
NOTE: For models with power seat, remove the slide rail installing bolt before disconnecting the ground terminal from the battery sensor.
Remove the front seats. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Front Seat. >
Separate the backrest assembly and the seat cushion assembly. < Ref. to DISASSEMBLY , Front Seat. >
Remove the side airbag module.
CAUTION: Do not open the protective cover of the side airbag module. If any damage is present in the protective cover or the cloth of side airbag module comes out from the protective cover slit, replace the side airbag module with a new part.
1. Remove the plastic fastener at the back side (bottom) of backrest assembly.
2. Open the fastener at the rear side of backrest assembly.
  
  Fig 1: Opening Fastener At Rear Side Of Backrest Assembly
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
3. Remove the hexagon cap nut and nuts.
4. While taking care not to damage the airbag protective cover, remove the side airbag module.
  
  Fig 2: Locating Hexagon Cap Nut And Nuts
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.