Attachment 1 and NHTSA Rules

Overview of NHTSA Rules

Airbag Deactivation (addressed in this bulletin)

For vehicles where an on-off switch is not available, NHTSA will authorize deactivation based on the following justifications:

- A rear-facing infant restraint must be placed in the front seat.

- A child 12 or under must ride in the front seat because of the medical condition that requires frequent monitoring.

- Drivers who are extremely short-statured (i.e., 4"6' or less).

- The driver or passenger has a medical condition that, in combination with an airbag, poses a special risk, and that risk outweighs the increased risk of injury if the airbag is turned off.

An owner who wants deactivation, should read NHTSA information brochure and request form. Both can be obtained from NHTSA. This information is also available on the NHTSA homepage

The owner should also submit a written request to NHTSA, containing the following:

- Name and address of owner.

- Justification for request (see above).

- Description of the facts creating the need for deactivation.

- Each request based on medical condition, or on a child whose medical condition needs to be monitored, must be accompanied by a physician's statement.

NHTSA will respond in writing, enclosing a copy of the information brochure, labels for the vehicle interior and a form to be filled out and mailed back to NHTSA regarding the deactivation. The customer must take the NHTSA letter to dealer or repair business to have deactivation performed.





























Air Bag On-Off Switches - Section IX





Authorization to Deactivate An Air Bag Form





Airbag Deactivation / Reactivation Request Form