Side Airbag Module: Removal

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 cable from battery and wait for at least 60 seconds before starting work. < Ref. to BATTERY , NOTE, Note. >
NOTE:
- For models other than STI model, disconnect the ground terminal from battery sensor.
- For model with the power seat, move the seat to the front-most position before removing the battery ground terminal.
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.
  
  NOTE: If it is hard to open, use a metal clip, etc.
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.