SL-Class (R230) 2003 -- 2012: Discussion on the SL500, SL550, SL600

SL/R230: 2003 SL 500 drivers air bag

Old Sep 2, 2021 | 12:33 PM
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From: orlando, Fl. area
2003 SL500
2003 SL 500 drivers air bag

Hello, finally got around to trying to replace a butchered dash in my 2003. Drivers side lower dash knee bolster had been brutalized (as well as center dash/console). I found a replacement, but had to recollect to match existing interior. As I removed old panel I realized it had the Air Bag and controller?( See
pix) how difficult is it to remove and transfer to newer replacement panel??? Could a mechanic take on such a task? What happen if the yellow wire was disconnected?



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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 01:31 PM
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From: Santa Clara, Ca
2003 SL55 / 2002 SLK32
Originally Posted by 4show
Hello, finally got around to trying to replace a butchered dash in my 2003. Drivers side lower dash knee bolster had been brutalized (as well as center dash/console). I found a replacement, but had to recollect to match existing interior. As I removed old panel I realized it had the Air Bag and controller?( See
pix) how difficult is it to remove and transfer to newer replacement panel??? Could a mechanic take on such a task? What happen if the yellow wire was disconnected?

You CAN unplug the yellow connector, but if you turn on the key while it is disconnected, your car will store and SRS code which will likely keep your SRS light on until you have it reset (by a star tester or scanner of that level).

Looking at this ebay add for the bag only,
https://www.ebay.com/p/1534444290
it looks like a simple task to swap it. However, if you feel it needs a professional, rather than "a mechanic", you may want to consult any reputable auto upholstery shop. They deal with this stuff regularly and know what they can and can't do when it comes to airbags.

HTH,
Chris

Last edited by latemodel21; Sep 2, 2021 at 01:36 PM.
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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 02:32 PM
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So if they are sold like that, one would think it isn’t hard and is possible to remove and reinstall on another panel. Are there any other pointers or things I should be aware of??
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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 05:28 PM
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2003 SL55 / 2002 SLK32
Originally Posted by 4show
So if they are sold like that, one would think it isn’t hard and is possible to remove and reinstall on another panel. Are there any other pointers or things I should be aware of??
It would appear that it is as simple as removing the 4 torx screws (circled in red in pic).

Best to leave the keys somewhere else while you do this. Some might opt to undo the (rear) battery as a precaution (I never do).

Cheers,
Chris

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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 05:47 PM
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Thanx Pal, all done and back in place. Started the car , no warnings, but haven’t driven it yet. Thinking all will be fine for the big radio reinstall Sunday. Center dash / console just as bad as the knee bolster panel. Broken 20 year old plastic framing covered in leather.

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