Mazda Repair: Miata Airbag Diagnostic Replacement, safety precaution, release tabs

Question
Good Day!

What is the best way to replace the Airbag Diagnostic Unit on a 1992 Miata?

Many Thanks,

John

Answer
Your air bag light is flashing 10 times between a pause?

The unit is located above the steering column.  You will notice two light blue boxes one larger than the other.  The larger one is the diagnostics module the smaller is the battery back up unit.  (The battery back up is no longer available from Mazda, no alternate source exists yet)

Disconnect the battery and the battery back up unit before attempting to remove/replace the ADM.  CAUTION:  Static electricity can cause an accidental deployment, use of a grounding strap is a standard safety precaution to avoid accidental deployments.

The assembly is a bear to get unsnapped considering the the position you have to get in to tho access it.  A simple suggestion is to leave the hanger plate (six slotted plate) of the module in place and disconnect the main body essentially taking the module apart.  The main body has seven small release tabs.  If the old one is still intact this will work if not then you must remove and replace the entire module.

The frame(s) does (do) unbolt but this is not any easy task either due to location.

Part number NA011677F0A