Tesla Model S: Air bag - Driver's (Remove and Replace)
Warning: If the 12V power supply is disconnected, do
not attempt to open the front doors with door glass in closed
position. Failure to follow this instruction could result in
door glass shatter.
Note: Before disconnecting the 12V power supply,
ensure that the driver's door window is fully open. Failure to
follow this instruction could result in vehicle lockout.
Removal
- Open both front windows.
- Adjust the steering column:
- Raise the steering column to its highest position.
- Fully extend the steering column.
- Disconnect 12V power.
- Rear wheel drive (RWD): Refer to
procedure.
- Dual Motor: Refer to procedure.
- Ensure that the first responder loop has been disconnected for
at least 2 minutes.
- Turn the steering wheel 90 degrees for better access to the
screws.
- Release the screws (x2) that secure the driver's airbag to the
steering wheel assembly (torque 7 Nm).
Note: Components have been removed in this graphic
to aid clarity.
- Carefully release the driver's airbag from the steering wheel
assembly.
Warning: To avoid personal injury, observe all
relevant safety precautions before removing or testing any
SRS components.
Warning: To avoid personal injury, eye protection
must be worn when performing this operation.
- Disconnect the driver's airbag electrical connectors.
- Remove the driver's airbag from the vehicle.
Warning: Store the air bag module with the
deployment side facing up. This will prevent it from being
propelled if accidentally deployed, which might cause
injury.
Installation
Installation procedure is the reverse of removal, except for the
following:
Caution: Replace all Patchbolt(s).
Ensure that there are no air bag alerts.
READ NEXT:
Warning: If the 12V power supply is disconnected, do
not attempt to open any doors with door glass in closed
position. Failure to follow this instruction could result in
door glass shat
Note: Removing the passenger's front airbag destroys the
instrument panel top pad.
Removal
Remove the top pad (refer to procedure)
Note: The top pad is
Warning: If the 12V power supply is disconnected, do
not attempt to open any doors with door glass in closed
position. Failure to follow this instruction could result in
door glass shat
SEE MORE:
Component removal
Whenever possible, clean components and surrounding area before removal.
Cap off openings exposed by component removal.
Immediately seal fuel, oil or hydraulic lines when apertures are
exposed; use plastic caps or plugs to prevent loss of fluid and
ingress of dirt.
Removal
Position the vehicle for access to the tailgate.
Open the tailgate to working height.
Carefully release the clips (x4) that secure the upper trim to
the tailgate.
Caution: Replace any broken clips.