Auto Airbag System Repair: flashing airbag light, ford taurus, release tabs


Question
QUESTION: I replaced the driver seat on my 2002 ford Taurus with a seat from the junk yard.I am now getting a code 33 flashing.So far I have found that the code has something to do with the seat belt.I did notice that the male part on the junkyard seat is lower than the old seat.Will I solve my problem if I swap out the seat buckles?

Auto Airbag System Repair: flashing airbag light, ford taurus, release tabs
Taurus seat belt prete  
ANSWER: Hi Jesse:
Indeed, a code 33 is a fault for a seat belt pretensioner circuit (driver side).
Based on your information, the replacement seat is from a vehicle that has had a deployment, thus the buckle (receiving end) in shorter and contracted as compared to your original one.
Yes, replacing the buckle with the original should remedy your situation.
I am attaching a picture to help you understand the component difference.

Good luck

Doug

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: How hard is it to swap out the belt buckles? Are there any electrical connections involved? Will I have to reset anything and if so how?
By the way I apoligize for not starting out with a THANK YOU!!!!!

Answer
Hi Jesse:
You're welcome.  
If you pulled the seat out previously, it's not much harder.  You will either have to pull the seat again, or remove the console to get to the seat belt buckle nut.  I believe it's an 18mm or 19mm nut that holds it to the seat frame.  Yes, there are a couple of wires from the buckle that need to be fished through and into the bulk connector under the seat.  Do not cut the wire and splice them...you will have to figure out where the release tabs are and they all slide apart.

No resetting necessary, it will reset itself if the system is intact.

That's tit
Doug