Airbag - Driver

Remove and replace the driver airbag module in the steering wheel, including proper deactivation and reactivation of the supplemental restraint system (SRS).

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Driver airbag module × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface, shift transmission to neutral (or park for automatic), and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key completely
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal using 10mm socket
4. Wait minimum 2 minutes for SRS system capacitor discharge - set timer and do not proceed early
5. Position steering wheel in straight-ahead position before beginning work
6. Ensure replacement airbag module is new OEM part, verify part number matches vehicle application, and inspect for any shipping damage

Procedure

1. 1

   Access airbag module rear fasteners
   From behind the steering wheel, locate the airbag module retention fasteners/clips accessed through openings on the back face of the steering wheel. Verify the exact fastener type, size, count, and orientation against the 2005 Viper factory service manual before proceeding, as these vary by model.
2. 2

   Remove airbag module fasteners
   Using T40 Torx socket, remove both airbag module mounting fasteners. Support the airbag module with your other hand as you remove the second fastener to prevent it from falling forward.
3. 3

   Disconnect airbag electrical connector
   Carefully pull the airbag module away from the steering wheel approximately 2-3 inches. Locate the yellow SRS connector on the back of the airbag module. Depress the connector locking tab and carefully disconnect the electrical connector. Note connector orientation for reinstallation.
   ⚠️Handle airbag module by the sides only. Never place fingers near the deployment face or bag folding area.
4. 4

   Remove driver airbag module
   Remove the airbag module from the vehicle. Immediately place it face-UP on a clean, flat surface in a secure area away from the work zone. Do not place tools, parts, or any objects on top of the module.
5. 5

   Inspect steering wheel clock spring
   With airbag removed, visually inspect the clock spring (spiral cable) connector and housing for any damage, cracks, or contamination. Verify clock spring is properly centered - there should be alignment marks visible through the housing window. Do not rotate the steering wheel with airbag removed unless clock spring is locked in centered position.
   ⚠If clock spring is damaged or not centered, it must be replaced or re-centered before installing new airbag. Operating with misaligned clock spring will cause premature failure.
6. 6

   Prepare new airbag module
   Remove new airbag module from packaging carefully. Verify part number matches original. Inspect connector pins for damage or contamination. Do not remove the shorting clip from the electrical connector until ready to install.
7. 7

   Connect electrical connector
   Remove shorting clip from new airbag module connector. Position airbag module near steering wheel and align the yellow SRS connector. Connect the electrical connector ensuring it fully seats and the locking tab engages with an audible click. Gently tug connector to verify it is locked.
8. 8

   Install airbag module to steering wheel
   Position the airbag module against the steering wheel, ensuring all alignment features engage properly and no wires are pinched. Start both T40 Torx fasteners by hand, threading them several turns to ensure proper engagement and alignment.
9. 9

   Torque airbag module fasteners
   Using calibrated torque wrench with T40 Torx socket, tighten both airbag module mounting fasteners to the factory-specified torque (verify exact value in the 2005 Viper service manual; typically approximately 7-10 Nm / 5-7 ft-lbs). Tighten each fastener evenly. Verify module sits flush against steering wheel with no gaps.
   Torque spec

   Airbag Module Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect battery and verify system
    Reconnect negative battery terminal and tighten securely. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine). Verify the SRS warning light performs its normal bulb-check self-test at key-on and then extinguishes (confirm expected duration in the 2005 Viper service manual). If light remains on or flashes, do not operate vehicle - diagnose fault codes with scan tool before proceeding.

Reassembly

1. If SRS warning light does not extinguish after self-test, use OBD-II scan tool to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) before operating vehicle
2. Test horn operation to verify clock spring continuity (horn switches are integrated in clock spring circuit)
3. Perform final visual inspection confirming airbag module is flush-mounted with no gaps or misalignment

Verification

• Confirm SRS warning light performs normal self-test: illuminates at key-on, extinguishes after 6-8 seconds
• Verify no SRS diagnostic trouble codes are stored using scan tool if available
• Verify horn operates correctly (press horn pad firmly)
• Visually confirm airbag module is securely mounted with no movement or gaps
• Test drive vehicle and confirm SRS light remains off through multiple drive cycles

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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