is it possible to install an passenger airbag switch to turn it off?

[porsche356]

Hi All,

Just bought a very nice used 997 s. A very nice car with low mileage (10K) which has everything I needed, except...... I thought that the airbag switch for the passenger would be standard. I should have known better on a Porsche :-).

Because I need to educate my children (2 year and 0 years) all about driving Porches, I want to turn off the passenger airbag. Is there a way to install an original or simular switch? If not, can the airbag be disabled by the computer (less favorable, but still better than a working airbag).

Thanks, frank

[rahmann]

If anything like my 996, there is a dealer installed option and special carseat available from Porsche (The ZOOM carseat!). There is a "buckle system" that is installed under the seat and the car seat "plugs" into it. 986 part is PNA.986.017.00 for reference. Take it from me, your kids will appreciate that you enjoy a Saturday drive with them.

Rick

[Loren]

Hi All,

Just bought a very nice used 997 s. A very nice car with low mileage (10K) which has everything I needed, except...... I thought that the airbag switch for the passenger would be standard. I should have known better on a Porsche :-).

Because I need to educate my children (2 year and 0 years) all about driving Porches, I want to turn off the passenger airbag. Is there a way to install an original or simular switch? If not, can the airbag be disabled by the computer (less favorable, but still better than a working airbag).

Thanks, frank

On a 997...

"The key switch for switching off the passenger’s airbag and the Isofix attachment bracket for the child seat are not installed at the factory. They can be retrofitted by an official Porsche partner (see Owner’s Manual)."

Switch off the passenger airbag on the key switch using the vehicle key.

A – Switch position ON – airbag is active.

B – Switch position OFF – airbag is switched off.

Note: Risk of serious or mortal injury for passenger if passenger airbag remains switched off after the child seat is removed. The passenger airbag must be switched on when the child seat has been removed.

When the airbag on the passenger’s side is switched off (see Owner’s Manual):

- warning light “PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF” is continuously lit when the ignition is switched on

- the message PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF is displayed by the on-board computer. Deactivation is acknowledged with an acoustic signal.

The retro-fit kit is part number:

MY05 (997,987, 987c) - 997.044.800.13 -- MSRP $272.15

MY06 on - 997.044.800.13 -- MSRP $231.36

[porsche356]

Great news thanks (also on behalf of my children :-)).

Is it difficult or can it be done DIY? (besides the Piwis part)?

Thanks, frank

[Loren]

For legal reasons (and the safety of your children) this is something you may want the dealer to do.