The manual for my '03 350z states that an airbag ON/OFF switch must be used or installed for the passenger seat prior to using a infant car seat.

We have another car but there may be the odd occasion where I need to take the kid somewhere in the 350z.

If the car has one already, where would it be? If it doesn't have one, can I just have the dealer install one? Or do I need to get some kind of government approval prior to doing so? Has anybody done this? Any insight on the process and the cost would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Elmer.

 

bump

 

Elmer,

I had one installed three years ago. You need to get authorization from the NHTSA. Go to safercar.gov/, or directly to the FAQ item with information about applying for approval:
3. How do I get an air bag ON-OFF switch?, for details.

Once the form is approved - as I recall, I received it back within a few days after FAXing it in - you simply take it to an installer and they'll handle it from there.

FYI, check the work closely when done (should always be done, of course, but I missed something). The switch itself was fine, but my cup-holder hasn't functioned right since then (I have to put pressure on the dash just below it before it will release or latch closed). I didn't notice this for a while after the install, and never bothered to take it back in...

Also, they could only install the switch for the front air bag. They had to completely disable the side and curtain air bags on the passenger side. I'm not sure if anything has changed since then, but that's the best they could do for me.

Good luck!

Corey

 

Hi Corey,

Thanks for the info!

I have downloaded the form to apply for the switch for Canada. I am just in the process of trying to get an estimate from the dealer but they have not been very diligent in getting this information for me.

Can you say how much it cost for you to have the switch installed? Did your dealer obtain the switch for you or did you obtain the switch and provide it to the dealer?

Thanks,
Elmer.