This procedure removes and replaces the driver airbag module in the steering wheel of a 2015 Kia Forte, including proper SRS system deactivation and reactivation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Driver airbag module × 1 — Use OEM specification - 56900-A7100 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and turn off ignition
2. Turn steering wheel to center position and ensure front wheels are pointing straight ahead
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and secure cable away from battery post
4. Wait a MINIMUM of 3 minutes to allow SRS capacitors to fully discharge
5. Confirm ignition is in the OFF position and key is removed
6. Place a clean cloth or towel on a workbench or flat surface at least 10 feet from vehicle to receive the removed airbag module

Procedure

1. 1

   Access airbag module mounting bolts
   From the rear of the steering wheel, locate the two T30 Torx access holes on either side (at approximately 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions). These holes provide access to the airbag module mounting bolts. On some models, small rubber plugs may cover these holes and should be removed first.
2. 2

   Remove airbag module mounting bolts
   Using a T30 Torx bit, remove the two airbag module mounting bolts by inserting the bit through the access holes from the rear of the steering wheel. Turn counterclockwise to remove. These bolts are captured and will remain with the airbag module. Keep track of any washers or spacers.
   ⚠Ensure battery has been disconnected for at least 3 minutes before performing this step.
   Torque spec

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

   Carefully remove airbag module from steering wheel
   Gently pull the airbag module straight back from the steering wheel hub. The module should release easily once the bolts are removed. Do not force or pry. As you pull the module back, you will expose the electrical connector(s) on the back.
   ⚠️Support the airbag module carefully. Do not let it hang by the wiring harness.
4. 4

   Disconnect airbag electrical connector
   Locate the yellow SRS connector(s) on the back of the airbag module. Press the locking tab and carefully disconnect the connector from the airbag module. On this vehicle, there is typically one main connector and possibly a secondary connector for the horn circuit. The yellow SRS connector may have a secondary locking mechanism (red clip or slide lock) that must be released first.
   ⚠Handle connectors gently to avoid damaging pins or locking tabs.
5. 5

   Secure removed airbag module
   Immediately carry the airbag module to the prepared clean, flat surface at least 10 feet from the vehicle. Place it face-UP (trim cover facing up) in a secure location where it cannot be disturbed, dropped, or contaminated. Never place the airbag face-down or stack anything on top of it.
   ⚠️Airbag deployment surface MUST face upward. Improper storage orientation can cause serious injury if accidental deployment occurs.
6. 6

   Inspect steering wheel and connectors
   With the airbag removed, inspect the steering wheel mounting surface for damage, cracks, or debris. Inspect the yellow SRS connector on the vehicle harness side for corrosion, damage, or bent pins. Check the horn connector if applicable. Clean any debris from the steering wheel hub area.
7. 7

   Prepare new airbag module
   Remove the new airbag module from its protective packaging. Inspect it for any shipping damage. Verify the part number matches the original unit. Keep the module face-up at all times. If reusing the original module, skip to next step.
   ℹ️New airbag modules may come with shorting clips installed on connectors for safety during shipping. Remove these clips just before installation.
8. 8

   Connect electrical connector to new airbag module
   Remove any shorting clips from the new airbag connector. Align the yellow SRS connector with the socket on the back of the new airbag module. Press firmly until you hear and feel a positive click. Ensure any secondary locking mechanism (red clip) is fully engaged. Connect the horn connector if applicable.
   ⚠Verify connector is fully seated and locked before proceeding. A partially connected airbag connector can cause system faults or deployment issues.
9. 9

   Install airbag module to steering wheel
   Carefully guide the airbag module wiring back into the steering wheel hub cavity. Align the airbag module with the mounting points on the steering wheel. The module should sit flush against the steering wheel with even gaps around the perimeter. Ensure no wiring is pinched between the module and steering wheel.
10. 10

    Install and torque airbag module bolts
    Insert the two T30 Torx mounting bolts through the access holes from the rear of the steering wheel. Thread them by hand first to ensure proper engagement. Using a torque wrench with T30 Torx bit, torque both bolts to exactly 7.0 Nm (5.0 lb-ft) in a cross pattern. Reinstall any rubber access hole plugs if equipped.
    ⚠️Correct torque is CRITICAL. Over-torquing can damage the airbag module or mounting points. Under-torquing can allow the module to become a projectile during deployment.
    Torque spec

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

    Reconnect battery and initialize SRS system
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to specification if applicable. Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start engine). The SRS warning light should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds, then extinguish. This indicates the system has completed its self-check and initialization.
    ⚠Ensure no one is in front of the steering wheel during this initialization process.

Reassembly

1. Verify airbag module is securely mounted with no gaps or movement
2. Confirm all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Verify steering wheel rim can rotate freely without interference from airbag module wiring
4. Ensure access hole plugs are reinstalled if originally equipped

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify SRS warning light illuminates briefly (approximately 6 seconds) then extinguishes
• If SRS light remains on, flashes, or does not illuminate at all, the system has detected a fault and requires professional diagnosis with factory scan tool
• Test horn function to verify horn circuit was not damaged during service
• Gently pull on the edges of the airbag module to confirm it is securely fastened to the steering wheel
• Take a short test drive and verify SRS light remains off during normal operation
• If a scan tool is available, check for stored SRS codes and clear them if necessary following manufacturer procedures

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