GKsSC430

As you all know, the passenger airbags on the 2002 SC430's (and others) have been declared dangerous and we are told not to drive the car with a passenger until Lexus can fix it. However, even without a passenger, the air bag may be dangerous if you happen to have books or some other weight in the passenger seat.

Another manufacturer is telling their clients to either turn off the passenger air bag (if there is a switch and there is no switch on the 2002 SC430) or the client can bring the car in and they will disconnect the passenger air bag. The SC430's can be disconnected in just a few minutes.

You must cross check the info below to make sure it is accurate.

According to the shop manual:
1. Disconnect the battery and wait at least 90 seconds.
2. Remove the "Instrument panel under cover sub-assembly"; it is the plastic cover above your feet on the passenger side; it snaps down at the front and just slides into place in the back. There is a light in the panel; slide it out so you can remove the panel completely.
3. Open and "Glove Compartment" and remove everything in it (good opportunity to clean out things). At the back and on the sides you will find a plastic fastener with wings. These are the bumpers for the door that limits its movement. Turn the fastener a quarter turn and pull it out; I needed pliers. When both are out, the glove box will swing down. Then there are a couple of screws and the whole assembly will come down. Take care not to put a strain on the wires.
4. Up above the glove box, inside the dash, there is a yellow connector for the power to the passenger airbag. Unplug it.
5. Put everything back together. When you start the car, you will note that the passenger airbag warning light stays on.

spwolf

interestingly enough, i just read last night that official stance of japanese automotive association will be to have airbags serviced every 10 years to ensure proper functioning... apparently chemical compound used in all of them degrades over time.