TexasSC300

I recently bought a 1998 SC300 (one week) with 76K miles on it! Awesome car! The only part in the interior that shows its age is the small cover to the SRS airbag. The Airbag placement seems to be on top of the dash for the 98+ years in the SC's. I called the Dealer and they do not sell just the bag cover. The whole assembly comes in one piece for a grand price of $1,400.

The parts guy, "Steve" also said that removal of the airbag was a real job and a half! He said extraction of the airback had to be backwards and from under the dash. With maybe the removal of some items like the glove box.

Does anyone have an easy answer to this problem? I wanted to post a pic. But, It seems that I am too new to post photos on her just yet.

-TexasSC300

Shadowen

iTrader: (6)

You could possibly use some SEM dye to paint it.

TexasSC300

not a bad Idea......But is the real Airbag replacement deal a deal breaker if I can get one for super cheap somewhere?

Shadowen

iTrader: (6)

I honestly can't answer that. I have a 92 dash without the airbag. I think it wouldn't be worth it with the time, effort, and resources involved. I've seen some people use SEM and it looks brand new. So for something that's just coming off a little bit, SEM seems like the answer.

TexasSC300

looking at the 97's is there are reason that I can t just get a cover from a salvage car that has a 97's airbag intact? Would it just be too dang hard to take off and put on? Does anyone know the truth out there???

GEZUP

iTrader: (2)

I had the same problem and did the same rounds you did by going to the dealer. Got lucky and found a guy that was parting out an SC and had an airbag. It is true that taking out / installing the airbag is not an easy task. I can send you the DIY instructions. You just need some ratchet extensions and patience. By the way - I bought the airbag for $40.00 from this guy... It was used - but in good condition and now the car looks so much better.

PS - when handling the airbags - be very carefull not to drop or bang.

GEZUP

iTrader: (2)

So here it is after - with the new $40.00 air bag. (It has been raining here so those black specs all over the dash is the shadow from the rain drops on the wind shield).

GEZUP

iTrader: (2)

Lastly, here is the DIY instructions. Start by opening the glove box - unscrew the top plastic parts. Then work your way from there. To get to the 2 main bolts hold the airbag (North & South) you have to lay back wards on the passenger seat. Pretty much putting your head under the glove box. Good luck. If you need a better copy of the attached instructions - just PM me and I will send it over.

GEZUP

iTrader: (2)

Lastly, here is the DIY instructions. Start by opening the glove box - unscrew the top plastic parts. Then work your way from there. To get to the 2 main bolts hold the airbag (North & South) you have to lay back wards on the passenger seat. Pretty much putting your head under the glove box. Good luck. If you need a better copy of the attached instructions - just PM me and I will send it over.

eemueller

Is the airbag you replaced have Tan as the interior color. This pic looks exactly like mine, and I'm having the same problem with the old cover turning black. Thanks.