2026-02-20

Side Air Bag - Driver's (Remove and Replace)

Correction Code 20010702

  • 2026-02-20: Added note on using PROC_RCM_DISARM if using this procedure to diagnose the SRS.
Warning IconA warning icon, calling your attention to a possibly risky situation
Warning
If using this procedure to diagnosis the vehicle's Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS), disarm the RCM, which will prevent all airbags and pretensioners from deploying. Re-arm the RCM after all of the vehicle's SRS components are re-installed. The RCM disarm routine is not available on Model S manufactured in 2018 or earlier. For these vehicles, disconnect LV power and perform the procedures as instructed.
  • Disarm RCM:PROC_RCM_DISARMvia Toolbox: (link)via Service Mode Plus:
    • Safety & Restraints ➜ Airbags ➜ Disarm RCM
    • Safety & Restraints ➜ Seats ➜ Disarm RCM
  • Re-arm RCM:PROC_RCM_ARMvia Toolbox: (link)via Service Mode Plus:
    • Safety & Restraints ➜ Airbags ➜ Re-Arm RCM
    • Safety & Restraints ➜ Seats ➜ Re-Arm RCM
Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
Note
The side air bag is a component within the seat back rest assembly. If the side air bag needs to be replaced, the whole seat back rest assembly must be replaced.
Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
Note
In the event of an airbag or seat belt tensioner deployment, certain airbag and seat belt components must be replaced, and other components must be inspected for damage. Refer to SRS Inspection and Component Replacement for a specific list of items that must be inspected and replaced.

Installation

Installation procedure is the reverse of removal, except for the following:

If the component was replaced due to an internal failure:
  1. Connect a laptop with Toolbox 3 to the vehicle.
  2. Unlock the vehicle gateway. See Gateway Unlock.
  3. In Toolbox 3, click Dashboards > Service Tools > DTCs, and then select SDM or RCM depending on the vehicle Restraint Control Type.
  4. Click Read DTCs to display the DTCs.
  5. Power cycle the vehicle.
  6. Click Clear DTCs to clear the DTCs.
  7. Disconnect Toolbox and remove the laptop from the vehicle.