Airbag - Driver

This procedure removes and replaces the driver airbag module in the steering wheel of a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, including proper disarming of the supplemental restraint system (SRS).

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Driver airbag module × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure transmission is in Park
2. Turn ignition OFF and remove key fob to at least 10 feet away from vehicle
3. Turn front wheels to straight-ahead position
4. Open hood and locate 12V auxiliary battery in engine compartment
5. Disconnect negative (-) battery terminal and isolate cable end away from terminal
6. Wait minimum 2 minutes for SRS system capacitors to discharge - set timer to ensure full wait time
7. Verify no one will turn on ignition or reconnect battery during repair

Procedure

1. 1

   Access airbag module fasteners
   From the back of the steering wheel, locate the two Torx access holes on either side of the steering wheel hub. These holes provide access to the airbag module retaining bolts. Do not insert tools from the front of the airbag.
2. 2

   Remove airbag module retaining bolts
   Insert T30 Torx bit through each access hole and remove the two airbag module retaining bolts. Support the airbag module with your other hand as you remove the second bolt to prevent it from falling. Keep these bolts for reinstallation - do not replace with standard fasteners.
   Torque spec

   Airbag Module Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove airbag module from steering wheel
   Carefully pull the airbag module straight away from the steering wheel hub. It should release easily once bolts are removed. Do not pull on any wiring. Tilt the module to access the electrical connectors on the back.
4. 4

   Disconnect airbag electrical connectors
   Locate the two electrical connectors on the back of the airbag module (one for airbag inflator, one for horn). Press the connector release tabs and carefully disconnect both connectors. Note the orientation and routing of connectors for reinstallation. On the yellow airbag connector, there is a Connector Position Assurance (CPA) device that must be lifted before the connector can be released.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires - press release tabs and pull only on connector bodies.
5. 5

   Secure removed airbag module
   Place the removed airbag module face-UP on a clean, flat surface in a secure area away from the work zone. Never place an airbag face-down. Keep away from heat sources, electrical equipment, and high-traffic areas. Cover with a clean towel to protect from debris.
   ⚠️Airbag deployment surface must face UP at all times when removed from vehicle.
6. 6

   Inspect steering wheel and clock spring
   With airbag removed, visually inspect the clock spring (yellow coiled wire assembly) for any damage, cracks, or exposed wiring. Verify clock spring is centered - there should be centering marks aligned. Check steering wheel hub for cracks or damage. Do not rotate steering wheel with airbag removed unless clock spring has been locked in centered position.
7. 7

   Prepare new airbag module
   Remove new airbag module from packaging. Verify part number matches old module and is correct for 2023 Bolt EUV. Inspect for any shipping damage. Keep protective covers on connectors until ready to install.
8. 8

   Connect electrical connectors to new airbag
   Connect the horn connector first, ensuring it clicks into place. Then connect the yellow airbag connector to the clock spring, pressing firmly until it clicks. Push down the yellow CPA device to lock the connector. Gently tug on both connectors to verify they are fully seated. Ensure no wires are pinched or kinked.
   ⚠Ensure CPA (Connector Position Assurance) device is fully seated on airbag connector - it should be flush with connector body.
9. 9

   Position airbag module to steering wheel
   Carefully route the wiring connectors into the steering wheel hub cavity. Align the airbag module to the steering wheel, ensuring the module sits flush against the wheel rim. Verify wiring is not pinched between module and wheel. The module should align naturally with the mounting holes.
10. 10

    Install and torque airbag retaining bolts
    Thread both airbag module retaining bolts by hand through the access holes from the back of the steering wheel. Once both bolts are hand-started, use torque wrench with T30 Torx bit to tighten each bolt to exactly 7.0 Nm (5.0 lb-ft) in a cross pattern. Do not exceed specified torque.
    ⚠️Critical torque specification - use calibrated torque wrench. Over-torquing can damage airbag deployment mechanism.
    Torque spec

    Airbag Module Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Verify airbag installation
    Confirm airbag module is flush with steering wheel rim all around with no gaps. Verify module does not move or rattle when gently pressed. Check that steering wheel spokes are not obstructed and module is centered properly.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect negative battery terminal to auxiliary battery. Tighten battery terminal bolt to 7.0 Nm (5.0 lb-ft). Ensure terminal is clean and connection is secure.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Initialize SRS system
    Ensure no one is in the vehicle. From outside the vehicle, turn ignition to ON position (do not start vehicle yet). Observe the airbag warning light on instrument cluster - it should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds then turn OFF. If light stays on, flashes, or does not illuminate, do not drive vehicle - there is a fault that must be diagnosed.

Reassembly

1. Reassembly is included in the procedure steps above
2. Ensure all electrical connectors have CPA devices fully seated
3. Verify airbag module torque specifications were followed exactly
4. Keep all documentation and old airbag module for proper disposal per local regulations

Verification

• Turn ignition ON and verify airbag warning light illuminates briefly then turns OFF - this indicates SRS system has passed self-check
• Test horn operation by pressing center of steering wheel - horn should sound normally
• Visually confirm airbag module is flush with steering wheel with no gaps or misalignment
• Gently press around edges of airbag module to verify it is secure with no movement
• If airbag warning light remains on or flashes, system requires professional scan tool diagnosis - do not drive vehicle
• Road test vehicle and verify no warning lights illuminate and steering operates normally

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