This procedure replaces the passenger-side front airbag module in a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, including proper disarming and rearming of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS).

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Passenger airbag module × 1 — Use OEM Mopar replacement
• Dashboard trim clips (if damaged) × 5 — Mopar retainer clips

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure ignition is OFF with key removed
2. Turn front wheels to straight-ahead position
3. Disconnect negative battery cable and secure away from battery post
4. Disconnect positive battery cable and secure away from battery post
5. Wait minimum 2 minutes for SRS system capacitors to fully discharge - set timer and do not proceed early
6. Document radio preset stations and obtain radio security code if applicable
7. Verify replacement airbag module is correct part number and is new OEM unit (never use recycled airbag modules)
8. Ensure work area is clear of metal tools and loose objects that could fall onto airbag during installation

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove glove box assembly
   Open glove box door fully. Squeeze both sides of glove box inward to release stop tabs from instrument panel frame. Lower glove box completely down and out of way. If full removal needed, disconnect glove box lamp connector by pressing release tab and pulling connector straight out.
2. 2

   Access airbag mounting area
   With glove box lowered or removed, locate the passenger airbag module behind the upper dashboard panel. You should see the rear of the airbag housing through the glove box opening. Identify the airbag connector - it will be a yellow or orange connector with a red locking tab or slider.
3. 3

   Disconnect passenger airbag connector
   Locate the yellow or orange passenger airbag connector. Slide the red connector position assurance (CPA) lock outward to unlock position. Press connector release tab and carefully pull connector halves straight apart. Do not twist or bend connector pins. Secure disconnected connector away from airbag module.
   ⚠️Ensure 2 minute wait time has elapsed since battery disconnect before touching connector. Never use force on airbag connectors.
4. 4

   Remove upper dashboard trim panel
   From passenger side, locate the upper dashboard trim panel above glove box that covers the airbag door. Remove Torx T25 screws securing upper trim panel (typically 4-6 screws along top edge near windshield). Carefully pull upper trim panel forward using trim tools to release retaining clips. Work from one end to other to avoid breaking clips. Set trim panel aside in safe location.
5. 5

   Remove passenger airbag door panel
   With upper trim removed, locate the airbag door panel (rectangular panel with AIRBAG or SRS embossing). The door is designed to split open during deployment. Remove Torx T25 screws securing airbag door to instrument panel structure (typically 2 screws). Carefully pull door panel away from instrument panel and set aside.
6. 6

   Remove airbag module mounting fasteners
   Locate the airbag module mounting bolts - typically 4 bolts securing module to metal bracket behind instrument panel. Using 10mm socket, remove all mounting bolts completely. Support airbag module weight while removing final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   ⚠️Always keep airbag module trim side facing UP during removal and handling. Never place airbag face-down on any surface.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove old airbag module
   Carefully guide airbag module out through dashboard opening. Keep module oriented with deployment side (trim cover) facing UP at all times. Move slowly to avoid snagging wiring harness. Once removed, immediately place module on clean, flat surface with trim cover facing UP, in secure area away from work zone.
8. 8

   Inspect mounting bracket and wiring
   Examine mounting bracket for damage, cracks, or deformation. Inspect airbag wiring harness for chafing, cuts, or exposed wires. Check connector pins for damage, corrosion, or bent terminals. Verify mounting bolt holes are clean and threads are intact. Any damage to structural components or wiring requires correction before installing new airbag.
9. 9

   Install new airbag module
   Remove new airbag module from packaging only when ready to install. Verify part number matches old module. Orient new module with trim cover facing outward (toward passenger compartment). Carefully guide module into position, aligning mounting holes with bracket. Thread all mounting bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment.
   ⚠️Never install used, damaged, or previously deployed airbag modules. Use only new OEM replacement modules.
10. 10

    Torque airbag mounting bolts
    Using torque wrench, tighten airbag module mounting bolts to specification in cross pattern (diagonal sequence). Verify module is seated flush against mounting bracket with no gaps. Confirm module does not move or shift when gently pressed.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Connect airbag electrical connector
    Route airbag connector to module. Carefully align connector halves and press together until fully seated with audible click. Slide red connector position assurance (CPA) lock fully inward to locked position. Gently tug on connector to verify it is fully locked and will not separate.
12. 12

    Reinstall airbag door and trim panels
    Position airbag door panel over airbag module, aligning mounting holes. Install and tighten Torx T25 screws for airbag door. Position upper dashboard trim panel, ensuring all alignment tabs engage properly. Press firmly along all edges to seat retaining clips. Install Torx T25 screws for upper trim panel. Verify all trim panels are flush and secure.
13. 13

    Reinstall glove box
    If glove box lamp was disconnected, reconnect connector until it clicks. Raise glove box assembly into position. Guide both side tabs back past instrument panel stops. Close glove box and verify smooth operation and proper latching.
14. 14

    Reconnect battery
    Ensure all SRS work is complete and no tools remain in vehicle. Reconnect positive battery cable first and tighten terminal bolt to specification. Then reconnect negative battery cable and tighten terminal bolt to specification. Ensure connections are clean and secure.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all dashboard trim panels are properly secured with no gaps or loose clips
2. Confirm glove box operates smoothly and latches properly
3. Check that airbag door panel sits flush with surrounding dashboard trim
4. Ensure no tools or parts were left in dashboard cavity
5. Verify battery terminals are tight and corrosion-free

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine). SRS warning light should illuminate for 6-8 seconds then turn OFF. If light stays on, flashes, or does not illuminate, DO NOT drive vehicle
• Connect factory-level SRS scan tool (Mopar wiTECH, StarSCAN, or equivalent professional tool). Read and record all SRS fault codes
• Clear all SRS fault codes using scan tool. Cycle ignition OFF then ON again. Verify SRS warning light performs proper bulb check then extinguishes
• Perform SRS system verification test using scan tool per manufacturer procedure to confirm passenger airbag circuit resistance is within specification
• If SRS warning light remains illuminated after code clearing, or if scan tool shows active faults, recheck all connector locks and mounting bolt torque. Seek professional diagnosis if fault persists
• Test drive vehicle and verify SRS warning light remains OFF during normal operation
• Relearn window auto-up/down functions if equipped: Hold window switch up until fully closed, continue holding 2 seconds. Repeat for down position
• Reset radio presets and enter security code if applicable

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