Is the airbag system still reliable on the 90s benzes?

[Benzy Boy]

Is it a bad idea to switch my SRS airbag steering wheel with a non-airbag steering wheel? Do the airbags even work after all these years? Anyone have firsthand experience?

I really want a nice nardi steering wheel but also care about my safety on my airbag equipped R129.

 

[ace10]

Mercedes believed that your airbag had a service life of 10 years when it was installed.
There should be a sticker somewhere with a date it is due for replacement.

No one can tell you what is right for you.
$0.02

 

[2phast]

I looked at a 88 W126 that was wrecked not too long ago. The owner said a drunk driver hit him on the drivers side, triggering the steering wheel airbag, which deployed just as it should. Not scientific, but it would appear that airbags don't have a set expiration date, so maybe the 10 year date is when the airbags are guaranteed to function, anything past that could just be a crap shoot.

 

[duuder]

i drove around with an AMG momo steering wheel on my car for a few years

 

[gsxr]

Mercedes released several different "extensions" to airbag service life. The last one I know of said the airbags were good for the life of the vehicle.

I personally would NOT remove/delete the SRS system from any street-driven vehicle.

Old TSB with 15-year airbag life:

https://www.w124performance.com/docs/mb/other/airbag_service_life_2002.pdf

New TSB for all models with no expiration on airbag service life:

https://www.w124performance.com/docs/mb/other/airbag_service_life_2009.pdf

 

[ace10]

Mercedes released several different "extensions" to airbag service life. The last one I know of said the airbags were good for the life of the vehicle.

I personally would NOT remove/delete the SRS system from any street-driven vehicle.

Old TSB with 15-year airbag life:

https://www.w124performance.com/docs/mb/other/airbag_service_life_2002.pdf

New TSB for all models with no expiration on airbag service life:

https://www.w124performance.com/docs/mb/other/airbag_service_life_2009.pdf

View attachment 184064

It'd be fun to remind MB that the "life" of the vehicle depends upon having parts available to keeping it alive.

 

[nocfn]

I have a MOMO wheel or two that is much smaller than the wagon wheel the W126 came with. The SRS system is still in place for the PSGR airbag. I installed a shunt to provide adequate resistance to the system for the front wheel. Don't ask me about it but it was done over a decade ago. I have no concerns really for my safety in either car. With any airbag vehicle, Sitting so close to the wheel may pose a crushing risk that may also break your nose at a minimum while saving your life. Self reliance/determination is different for everyone I suppose.