This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the passenger airbag module in a 2015 Kia Forte, including proper disarming of the SRS system and reconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Passenger airbag module × 1 — Use OEM specification - Kia 845302T000 or equivalent
• Airbag connector retaining clip (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and secure cable away from battery
4. Wait a MINIMUM of 2 minutes to allow SRS system capacitors to fully discharge
5. Verify no one is sitting in the passenger seat during the procedure
6. Place all removed airbag components face-up on a clean, flat surface away from work area

Procedure

1. 1

   Open and secure glove box
   Open the glove box fully. Squeeze the sides of the glove box inward to release the stoppers and allow it to drop down past the normal open position. This provides access to the upper dashboard area behind the glove box.
2. 2

   Disconnect passenger airbag connector
   Locate the yellow SRS connector behind the glove box area on the passenger side. Press the red safety lock tab and pull it outward to unlock. Then press the connector release tab and carefully disconnect the airbag harness connector. Do not pull on wires, only on the connector body.
   ⚠️Ensure 2 minutes have passed since battery disconnection before touching this connector. Yellow connectors indicate SRS components.
3. 3

   Remove upper dashboard trim panel
   Using trim removal tools, carefully pry the upper dashboard trim panel starting from the passenger side. Work your way across releasing the retaining clips. There are typically 6-8 clips holding this panel. Remove the panel completely to expose the airbag module mounting bolts.
   ⚠Dashboard trim clips break easily. Apply steady, gentle pressure and work slowly to avoid damage.
4. 4

   Remove airbag module mounting bolts
   Locate the four Torx T30 bolts securing the passenger airbag module to the dashboard framework. These are typically located at each corner of the airbag module. Using a Torx T30 bit, remove all four mounting bolts. Support the airbag module with your other hand as you remove the final bolts to prevent it from falling.
   ⚠️Support the airbag module during bolt removal. Do not allow it to drop or impact any surface.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove passenger airbag module
   Carefully pull the airbag module straight out from the dashboard. Guide the wiring harness through the opening as you remove it. Once removed, immediately place the airbag module face-UP on a clean, flat surface at least 20 feet away from the work area. Never place it face-down.
   ⚠️ALWAYS store airbag modules face-UP. Face-down storage can cause the module to become a projectile if accidental deployment occurs.
6. 6

   Inspect mounting bracket and connector
   Inspect the dashboard mounting bracket for any cracks, damage, or deformation. Check the yellow SRS connector for any signs of corrosion, damage, or bent pins. If any damage is found, it must be repaired before installing the new airbag. Verify the connector locking mechanism functions properly.
7. 7

   Position new airbag module
   Remove the new passenger airbag module from its packaging. Route the wiring harness through the dashboard opening. Carefully position the new airbag module into the mounting location, ensuring proper alignment with all four mounting bolt holes. Verify the module sits flush against the dashboard framework.
   ⚠Handle new airbag module carefully. Do not drop, impact, or expose to excessive heat or moisture.
8. 8

   Install airbag module mounting bolts
   Insert all four Torx mounting bolts finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Using a calibrated torque wrench with Torx T30 bit, tighten all four bolts in a cross pattern (top-left, bottom-right, top-right, bottom-left) to exactly 7.0 Nm (5.0 lb-ft). This torque specification is critical for proper airbag function.
   ⚠️CRITICAL TORQUE SPECIFICATION: Must be exactly 7.0 Nm. Over-torquing can prevent deployment; under-torquing can cause accidental deployment.
   Torque spec

   Airbag Module Bolts7 Nm (5 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect passenger airbag connector
   Route the yellow SRS connector to its mating connector behind the glove box area. Align the connectors carefully and press together firmly until you hear and feel a positive click. Push the red safety lock tab fully inward to secure the connection. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked.
10. 10

    Reinstall upper dashboard trim panel
    Position the upper dashboard trim panel and align all retaining clips with their respective holes. Starting at one end, press firmly on each clip location until you hear it snap into place. Work across the entire panel ensuring all clips are fully seated. Verify the panel sits flush with no gaps.
11. 11

    Return glove box to normal position
    Lift the glove box back to its normal position. Release the sides and allow the stoppers to re-engage in their normal positions. Close the glove box and verify it operates normally.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and clear codes
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten securely. Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine). The SRS warning light should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds, then turn off. This indicates the system has completed its self-check successfully.
    ⚠If SRS warning light remains illuminated after 6 seconds, or flashes, do not drive the vehicle. Professional diagnosis is required.
    Torque spec

    Ground Bolt13 Nm (10 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all dashboard trim panels are fully secured with no rattles or loose clips
2. Verify glove box operates normally and does not interfere with any airbag components
3. Confirm all SRS connectors are fully locked with safety tabs engaged
4. Double-check that airbag module mounting bolts are torqued to specification

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify SRS warning light illuminates briefly (approximately 6 seconds) then turns off
• If SRS light remains on or flashes, system requires professional diagnosis before vehicle is driven
• Perform a visual inspection to ensure airbag module is flush with dashboard and properly aligned
• Verify all dashboard trim panels are secure and properly fitted
• Test glove box operation to ensure it opens and closes normally without interference
• RECOMMENDED: Have the SRS system scanned with a professional diagnostic tool to verify no fault codes are present and system is fully operational

More procedures for this vehicle