I was attempting to change the clock spring in my 2008 Versa today and had a heck of a time trying to get the airbag assembly to pop out of the steering wheel. I had done it a couple of years ago by inserting flat screwdrivers in each hole and pushing the spring in until the module pops out, no problem.
Today there was no way it was coming out, just would not release.
I"m wondering, because last year i had the dealer change the airbag due to a recall. Is there something they might have done to make it non- removable or tamper proof.
I know it seems unlikely but just can't understand why that assembly won't just pop out. Its like there is another fastener still holding it in.
Any ideas?
Just pure dumb luck gets them out. I looked close and hard at the setup once when I had fits and finally got it out. For one, a slot screwdriver end is the WRONG thing to use there, it needs to be a perfectly round bar similar to a phillips end instead. I measured too for exact tool shaft OD, the numbers are buried in my books but either 5/16" or 3/8" bare no thread plain rod would be the best tool there. There is zero advantage to a slot tip and it actually steers the rod sideways to not fit as well to slip out of place if it is not 100% dead horizontal to the inner casting, which of course you cannot see.
I'd bet the official Nissan tool there is a simple plain bar with a handle on it, maybe with a slight bend to ease making the curve there.
When you get the module out then look to see if the bail holding things in place is still shaped right, it can warp or bend due to the force involved and then that will make the next time much harder to get it out. I rebent mine to what I thought was correct and on reinstall the module lightly clicked right back into place perfectly to hold solidly.
Watch for the backing springs that stick to the module on coming out, they can drop off easily to get lost on the floor, I had to improvise one when it disappeared. Needed to hold the module up to properly push down to get the horn.
I"m wondering, because last year i had the dealer change the airbag due to a recall. Is there something they might have done to make it non- removable or tamper proof.
No they didn't. My 09 airbag was replaced due to recall, and I had it out last weekend.
Also, this would be the perfect time to install a leather SL wheel (if you don't already have one)!
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