This procedure removes and replaces the airbag control module (ACU/SRS unit) located under the center console. This is a safety-critical repair requiring proper programming and calibration after installation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Airbag Control Module/SRS Unit × 1 — Use OEM Honda part number for your specific model year

Preparation

1. Ensure the vehicle is on level ground with the parking brake engaged
2. Turn the ignition to OFF and remove the key/fob from the vehicle
3. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and secure the cable away from the battery post
4. Wait a minimum of 3 minutes for the SRS system capacitors to fully discharge
5. Verify you have the correct replacement module for your specific vehicle VIN and model year
6. Document any existing airbag warning lights or DTCs before beginning work

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove center console front trim panel
   Using trim removal tools, carefully pry up the front section of the center console trim panel starting from the sides near the cupholders. Release the retaining clips and lift the panel upward. Disconnect any electrical connectors for USB ports or 12V outlets if equipped.
2. 2

   Remove center console rear trim and armrest
   Open the center console storage compartment. Remove the rubber mat from the bottom. Locate and remove the screws at the bottom of the console (typically 2-4 screws). Lift the rear section of the console and armrest upward to release the retaining clips. Disconnect any electrical connectors for heated seats or other features if equipped.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Access the airbag control module
   With the center console trim removed, locate the airbag control module mounted to the floor tunnel beneath the console area. The module is a rectangular metal box typically silver or black in color with a multi-pin yellow connector. Note the module's orientation and mounting position for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Disconnect the SRS harness connector
   Locate the yellow SRS connector attached to the airbag module. Slide the connector lock (red or orange secondary lock) to the unlock position. Press the primary connector release tab and carefully pull the connector straight out from the module. Do not bend or damage the connector pins.
   ⚠Handle the connector carefully. Bent pins will require harness replacement and significantly increase repair cost.
5. 5

   Remove module ground connection
   Locate the ground bolt securing the module's ground strap to the chassis. Using a 10mm socket, remove the ground bolt and disconnect the ground strap from the module or chassis mounting point. Keep the bolt and ground strap for reinstallation.
   ℹ️The ground connection is critical for proper SRS operation. Ensure the contact surfaces are clean and free of corrosion.
   Torque spec

   Ground Bolt13 Nm (10 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove airbag module mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the mounting bolts securing the airbag module to the floor bracket. There are typically 2-4 bolts depending on the bracket design. Support the module as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove the airbag module
   Carefully lift the airbag module away from the mounting bracket. Inspect the mounting area for any corrosion, damage, or debris. Clean the mounting surfaces if necessary. Set the old module aside in a safe location away from the work area.
8. 8

   Install the new airbag module
   Position the new airbag module in the mounting bracket in the same orientation as the original. Ensure the module sits flush against the bracket and the mounting holes align properly. Do not force the module into position.
   ⚠Verify the replacement module part number matches the vehicle specification. Installing an incorrect module can cause system malfunction.
9. 9

   Install module mounting bolts
   Install the module mounting bolts and tighten in a cross pattern to the specified torque using a torque wrench. Ensure the module is securely mounted with no movement or looseness.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect ground connection
    Inspect the ground contact surfaces on both the strap and chassis for corrosion or paint. Clean with a wire brush if necessary to ensure bare metal contact. Position the ground strap and install the ground bolt. Torque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Ground Bolt13 Nm (10 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect the SRS harness connector
    Inspect the yellow SRS connector for damage or corrosion. Align the connector with the module socket and press firmly until it clicks into place. Slide the secondary connector lock to the locked position. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated.
12. 12

    Reconnect the battery
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Tighten the battery terminal bolt to the specified torque. Do not overtighten as this can damage the terminal.
    ⚠Do not turn the ignition on yet. Module programming must be completed before the vehicle can be operated.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Program the airbag module
    Connect the Honda HDS scan tool or equivalent professional scan tool to the vehicle's OBD-II port. Follow the scan tool prompts to program the new airbag module with the vehicle's VIN and calibration data. This process typically takes 5-15 minutes. Do not disconnect the scan tool or turn off the ignition during programming.
    ⚠️Module programming is mandatory. An unprogrammed module will not deploy airbags in a crash. If you do not have access to proper programming equipment, stop here and seek professional service.
14. 14

    Clear DTCs and verify system operation
    Using the scan tool, clear all SRS diagnostic trouble codes. Perform a complete SRS system test to verify all airbag components are communicating properly. Verify the airbag warning light on the instrument cluster illuminates during the bulb check and then turns off after 6 seconds. If the light remains on or flashes, diagnose and repair the fault before proceeding.
    ⚠️Do not return the vehicle to service if the airbag warning light remains illuminated or any SRS fault codes are present.
15. 15

    Reinstall center console components
    Reconnect any electrical connectors for console features. Position the center console rear section and armrest, pressing down to engage the retaining clips. Install and torque the console mounting screws. Reinstall the front console trim panel, ensuring all clips engage properly. Install the console rubber mat.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all console trim panels are properly seated with no gaps or loose clips
2. Verify all electrical connections for console accessories are secure and functioning
3. Confirm the airbag warning light operates correctly (illuminates with ignition on, then turns off after 6 seconds)
4. Document the module replacement, programming date, and final diagnostic results in vehicle service records

Verification

• Turn the ignition to ON (engine off) and observe the airbag warning light. It should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds during the bulb check, then turn off completely
• If equipped with an SRS indicator in the instrument cluster, verify it shows no active faults
• Perform a final diagnostic scan to confirm zero active or pending SRS codes
• Road test the vehicle and verify the airbag warning light does not illuminate during normal driving
• Verify all center console functions (cupholders, storage, USB ports, etc.) operate normally with no rattles or loose panels
• CRITICAL: If the airbag warning light remains on, flashes, or any SRS codes are present, do not return the vehicle to service until the fault is diagnosed and repaired

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