Airbag - Passenger

Replace the passenger-side airbag module in the dashboard, including proper disarming of the SRS system and component verification.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Passenger airbag module × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Dashboard trim panel clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Airbag module mounting bolts × 1 — Use new OEM fasteners

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure vehicle is powered off and remove key fob at least 15 feet away from vehicle
3. Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal and isolate cable end
4. Wait minimum 3 minutes for SRS capacitors to fully discharge
5. Put on anti-static wrist strap and connect to vehicle ground
6. Document all diagnostic trouble codes using Rivian diagnostic scanner before starting work
7. Set steering wheel to straight-ahead position
8. Cover seats and center console with protective covering to prevent damage from falling trim pieces
9. Take photos of dashboard panel alignment and connector positions for reference during reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove upper glove box assembly
   Open glove box fully. Press both sides of glove box inward to release stops and allow it to drop down past normal open position. Remove four T25 Torx screws securing glove box hinge to dashboard. Disconnect glove box lighting connector if equipped. Remove glove box assembly completely and set aside.
2. 2

   Remove passenger dashboard trim panels
   Using trim removal tools, carefully pry away the right side A-pillar trim starting from the top and working downward. Remove the passenger side dashboard end cap by pulling straight back. Remove the lower dashboard panel below glove box opening by releasing four trim clips. Work carefully to avoid breaking clips on this commercial vehicle configuration.
3. 3

   Access airbag module mounting area
   With glove box removed, look into the dashboard cavity. Locate the passenger airbag module behind the upper dashboard panel. You will see a metal mounting bracket with the airbag module secured to it. Use flashlight to identify all electrical connectors and mounting hardware.
4. 4

   Disconnect airbag electrical connectors
   Locate the yellow SRS connector(s) attached to the back of the passenger airbag module. Release the connector lock tab (typically red or yellow sliding lock) by pushing or sliding it to the unlock position. Carefully disconnect the connector by pulling straight back on the connector body, never the wires. Use masking tape to mark connector orientation.
5. 5

   Remove upper dashboard panel section
   From the glove box opening, locate and remove the screws securing the upper passenger dashboard panel that contains the airbag door. There are typically 4-6 T30 Torx screws accessible from inside the dashboard cavity. Some screws may be hidden behind small access covers. Support the panel as you remove the final screws to prevent it from falling.
6. 6

   Remove airbag module mounting fasteners
   With the upper panel partially separated or fully removed, access the airbag module mounting bolts. Remove the four mounting bolts or nuts securing the airbag module to its bracket (typically 10mm). Keep track of any washers or spacers. Support the airbag module to prevent it from falling during removal of the last fastener.
7. 7

   Remove old airbag module
   Carefully extract the passenger airbag module from the dashboard, keeping the deployment side (passenger side) pointed away from your body at all times. Navigate the module through the glove box opening or dashboard panel opening. Place the removed airbag on a stable surface with deployment side facing UP, never face down.
8. 8

   Inspect mounting bracket and surrounding area
   Thoroughly inspect the airbag mounting bracket for any cracks, deformation, or damage. Check the dashboard structure around the mounting area for integrity. Verify the airbag deployment door mechanism in the dashboard panel moves freely and shows no cracks. Inspect all wiring harnesses for damage, chafing, or corrosion.
9. 9

   Install new airbag module
   Remove new airbag module from protective packaging. Verify part number matches original. Keeping deployment side facing away from body, carefully position new airbag module into the mounting bracket. Align all mounting holes with bracket. Install new mounting bolts with any washers or spacers in their original positions. Tighten bolts in a cross pattern to ensure even seating.
10. 10

    Connect airbag electrical connectors
    Connect the yellow SRS connector to the new airbag module, ensuring it clicks fully into place. Slide the connector lock tab to the locked position. Verify connection is secure by gently tugging on connector body. Ensure no wires are pinched or under tension. Route wiring harness to avoid any sharp edges or pinch points.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper dashboard panel
    Position the upper dashboard panel with airbag door back into place. Ensure the airbag door mechanism aligns properly and moves freely. Install all mounting screws in reverse order of removal, tightening in a cross pattern to ensure even panel alignment. Verify panel gaps are even and consistent with other dashboard sections.
12. 12

    Reinstall trim panels and glove box
    Reinstall the lower dashboard panel and secure all trim clips. Reconnect glove box lighting connector if equipped. Position glove box assembly and install four T25 Torx hinge screws. Reinstall dashboard end cap and A-pillar trim, ensuring all clips are fully seated. Test glove box operation for smooth movement and proper stop engagement.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal. Enter vehicle and power on the system. The airbag warning light should illuminate briefly during self-test, then extinguish. If light remains on or flashes, do not drive vehicle and proceed to diagnostic verification step.

Reassembly

1. Verify all dashboard panels are securely fastened with no loose clips or gaps
2. Ensure all trim pieces are aligned properly and match factory appearance
3. Confirm glove box operates smoothly and latches properly
4. Double-check that no tools or parts were left in dashboard cavity
5. Verify airbag deployment door sits flush with dashboard and shows no gaps

Verification

• Connect Rivian diagnostic scanner and perform SRS system scan to verify no diagnostic trouble codes are present
• Verify passenger airbag indicator light (if equipped) operates correctly during startup self-test and then extinguishes
• Use diagnostic scanner to verify airbag module is communicating properly with SRS control module and shows correct part number
• Perform visual inspection of all dashboard panels to ensure proper fit and finish
• Test all functions in passenger area including glove box, lighting, and vents to ensure nothing was disturbed during repair
• Document all verification steps and clear any stored codes if system passes all tests
• If airbag warning light remains illuminated or any codes are present, DO NOT return vehicle to service - further diagnosis required
• Recommend professional calibration verification if any uncertainty exists about system operation

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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