Retrofitting side airbags?

[Towncivilian]

It's theoretically possible to retrofit side airbag modules into a side airbag-less Pathfinder. One would need to replace the main airbag control/diagnostic unit located under the center console, add the side airbag sensors in the pillar trim area below the front seat belts, and obviously the side airbag modules themselves (including harnesses). Perhaps all of this could be found at a junkyard.

What I'd be concerned about is whether the seats are compatible - in other words, do they have the correct area to bolt the airbag modules into. Everything else should be good; the airbag "brain" just swaps over, and the side airbag sensors should just bolt in place.

Has anybody ever attempted such a project?

[PathDetector]

The whold idea sounds a little sketchy to me. So much testing goes into that kind of stuff i.e. deployment speed, placement, triggers. Working with airbags seems like some really tricky stuff. Curious though to see if anyone has tried it!


BuMp

[miamiheat3332]

To me if you want them, this seems like a straightforward project other then sourcing the parts.

Look at it this way, your not putting an airbag system into a car that never came with one and/or placing sensors etc wherever you think is best.

Its like you took your pathfinder apart and now you reinstalling the airbags. It was designed and engineered for the chassis, so as long as you place the sensors/hardware/airbags/modules where the factory did on the newer ones and re-assemble it, it should work fine.

[Towncivilian]

I'm talking about the in-seat air bags which were an option, not the curtain airbags of newer (I think 03-04) Pathfinders. I doubt curtains would be retrofittable.

I will try to see if the wiring harnesses and proper mounting locations are present for the airbags modules and side sensors at some point. If they are, I'll try to source parts from a junkyard and make the swap.

[zach7685]

You will need the leather seats and they are heavy. Let me know if you ever do put them in.

[Towncivilian]

I prefer cloth seats, so if side seat airbags only came on models equipped with leather I guess I'll have to forget about this idea.

[zach7685]

Ya its only available with the leather though u could get them re upholstered