Can consumers get their air bags deactivated instead of installing an air bag ON-OFF switch?
Generally, no. If an air bag ON-OFF switch is available from the vehicle manufacturer for a particular vehicle, eligible consumers desiring to disable their air bags must have an ON-OFF switch installed. A dealer or repair shop cannot simply deactivate (or disconnect) the air bags. If an ON-OFF switch is not available from the vehicle manufacturer for a particular vehicle, NHTSA will authorize air bag deactivation on a case-by-case basis under certain circumstances. If an ON-OFF switch is available only from an aftermarket company, NHTSA still will authorize air bag deactivation for eligible people (see Air Bag Deactivation).
