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Mx5+Cx9
05-26-2009, 12:34 PM
Does anybody know if the front air bag cover on the steering wheel is replacable, or is it integrated to the air bag system? It's the piece w/ the Mazda emblem on it. I need to replace my wife's because of my stupidity. I'm hoping those w/ a shop manual can chime in. Thanks.
CX9 SportOwner
05-26-2009, 03:02 PM
I can look when my wife gets home from work, but the center pad tends to be integrated with the air bag unit because they are designed to break apart to allow the bag to deploy. Call a dealer and ask.

The assemblies I've seen included the outer pad.
Mx5+Cx9
05-26-2009, 07:46 PM
my fear is that it's integrated. But, I'm hoping not since it's what you press for the horn. I'd appreciate it if you can look for me. I'm gonna head over to the stealer when I get home in a couple of days.
ceric
05-26-2009, 09:16 PM
Can't be sure but there is a section in WorkShop manual on how to remove driver's front airbag. It seems that the whole module is one-piece. The cover of the module is designed to break open when it is activated. Therefore, I don't think you can buy just the plastic cover.
How bad did you damage yours?

I can scan you the page if you need it later.
There are only 5 simple steps.
Mx5+Cx9
05-26-2009, 10:09 PM
Can't be sure but there is a section in WorkShop manual on how to remove driver's front airbag. It seems that the whole module is one-piece. The cover of the module is designed to break open when it is activated. Therefore, I don't think you can buy just the plastic cover.
How bad did you damage yours?

I can scan you the page if you need it later.
There are only 5 simple steps.

It's not damaged too badly, just a small 1" superficial gash. Except it's unsightly, and will be a constant reminder of my stupidity, so I'd rather not see it. I would appreciate it if you could scan and email it to me if you'd rather not post it here.

Thanks!
ceric
05-27-2009, 01:56 AM
Here is the page.
CX9 SportOwner
05-27-2009, 02:04 AM
As shown it comes off with 2 10mm bolts under snap out covers. Very easy, but it is an integrated unit, as I suspected.

To replace the cover you have to replace the entire air bag module. This means you won't be able to buy it. You would have to have the dealer get one and install it for you. Messing with it yourself could deploy it, and that is very bad if you've seen one go off. There is also a very delicate rubber band that keeps the wiring ina certain position that can be easily broken if you're not careful.

Do you have a photo of the damage?
Mx5+Cx9
05-27-2009, 01:25 PM
ah darn. It looks like I may have to live w/ it. Thanks for info guys.
CX9 SportOwner
05-27-2009, 02:28 PM
Post a photo of the damage. Maybe it's repairable.
ceric
05-27-2009, 09:57 PM
Put a sticker on it. A transparent film, maybe.
CX9 SportOwner
05-27-2009, 11:55 PM
There are kits to repair textured vinyl.
Mx5+Cx9
05-28-2009, 12:57 AM
I'm considering putting a vinyl material over it. My buddy has a sign/graphics shop and he's got a textured vinyl material that looks like carbon fiber. I can't imagine how it looks, hopefully it doesn't look too odd.
el_Don
05-29-2009, 03:59 PM
Just buy one off of ebay and install it with the neg. terminal disconnected.
ceric
05-29-2009, 06:57 PM
I saw one on eBay, the seller asks for $399.
That ain't cheap.
CX9 SportOwner
05-29-2009, 08:18 PM
I wouldn't even mess with it, but if you do, take every precaution possible. That thing can kill you if it goes off.

It's a little odd that someone is selling one on ebay. Stolen maybe?
el_Don
05-29-2009, 10:01 PM
There was one on here for 70 a couple of weeks ago. Check the for sale section
Mx5+Cx9
05-30-2009, 04:51 AM
Nah, I'm not gonna mess w/ replacing the air bag. Not for a small cosmetic scar. I've covered it w/ vinyl instead.
Here is a picture of the scar:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2457/3577433385_7d936fbb34.jpg
and here's a picture after covering it:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3357/3578236898_2ec83773d6.jpg

It looks ok, so I think I'll leave it on.
StealthWyvern
05-30-2009, 04:56 AM
not my cup of tea but whatever floats your boat... might look better to me if their was more cf in that shot.
el_Don
05-30-2009, 10:44 AM
Oh I totally didn't notice that you were talking about a CX-9. Fail on me. Forget what I said earlier
CX9 SportOwner
05-30-2009, 02:43 PM
Something like this. The repair and then match the texture. There or different versions of this, I just used it as an example. Any department store will have one.

http://www.amazon.com/Liquid-Leather-Repairs-Cleaner-Conditioner/dp/B0009NXQH2/ref=pd_sim_misc_3

.