Volvo 850 Airbag Deactivation

[FinnoSwede]

Dear Volvoers!

I am writing from the cold-ish realm of Finland and have a quite well-cared for 1996 Volvo 850 (standard shift, 2.3L engine non-turbo).

I have hit a snag with the SRS airbag system, and would like some qualified help to solve this. It would be MUCH appreciated!

I am trying to do the following:

1) Replace the alarm control unit (stopped working, first gradually, now the dash-top alarm LED doesn't even blink).

2) Remove the steering wheel to clean the horn contacts (the horn works sometimes, and yes, I have checked fuses, wiring, and the two horns in front of the radiator, and all is well). I understand that there is a contact plate behind the steering wheel.

So, my question is now this:

a) Do I actually need to deactivate my SRS system in this year and model to remove the alarm control unit and steering wheel (it says so in the service manual)?

b) HOW do I deactivate the SRS system?

I would appreciate thoroughness and care in the reply, as the SRS system is delicate and expensive to repair. I am also in no conditon to spend money in a new airbag(s). Replies from people who have actually done the repair themselves and/or technicians would be highly regarded.

Thanks a bunch!

FinnoSwede

[Ozark Lee]

In order to deactivate the SRS system simply remove the negative battery lead and then stand on the brake pedal to make sure the voltage has dropped to zero.

Do not hook up the battery again until all of the SRS components are re-installed and plugged in or you will trigger an SRS fault code that requires a dealer or a good Volvo repair shop to reset it.

...Lee

[FinnoSwede]

In order to deactivate the SRS system simply remove the negative battery lead and then stand on the brake pedal to make sure the voltage has dropped to zero.

Do not hook up the battery again until all of the SRS components are re-installed and plugged in or you will trigger an SRS fault code that requires a dealer or a good Volvo repair shop to reset it.

...Lee

Hi Lee, and thanks a million for the quick reply.

Two questions:

1) Is it at all possible that the SRS system has a separate power supply somewhere?

2) What test can I perform to make absolutely sure there is NO voltage left?

3) What is the exact procedure for removing the steering wheel? I have searched around in the site, but there is a lot of contradicting information. Something about removing the right screw first. What can you tell me?

Grateful,

FinnoSwede

[jimmy57]

Volvo SRS system uses a feature that purposely discharges the standby power source within 10 seconds of key off and also when battery is disconnected. Volvos are not one of the car makes that has SRS systems that pose risks when working on the car immediately after disconnecting the battery.

[FinnoSwede]

Volvo SRS system uses a feature that purposely discharges the standby power source within 10 seconds of key off and also when battery is disconnected. Volvos are not one of the car makes that has SRS systems that pose risks when working on the car immediately after disconnecting the battery.

Hi, Jimmy. Thanks a ton for that reply.

Would you by any chance know the proper procedure for removing the steering wheel?

Thanks!

FinnoSwede