Steering Wheel Audio Controls...

I have a 2003 SR5 and want to add steering wheel audio controls to go with my new(to me) Scion touchscreen HU. I've read many of the threads about needing a new air bag, etc. Why couldn't one just use the airbag covers I see on Ebay. Apparently, it would involve removing the air bag from the existing cover and replacing it with the cover designed for the audio controls. About $80 for the cover. Anyone ever done this? Anything to be concerned about? Thanks!
 
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The only thing you have to worry about is the airbag blowing up. The airbags are the same, it is the cover that is different, but the cover is moulded onto the airbag. I am sure you could detach it and attached the new cover, but I would consider a worst case scenario where you actually deploy the airbag and that cover goes flying and you are blasted with metal fragments. Might be better to just buy the right parts.

The upside is that your airbag does have value. You can easily sell it after you buy one that has the controls cutout.

The other option is to cut your existing cover. People have done it, but it really looks like garbage.
 
Thanks for the reply. Your method sounds the best. I think I read on the Tundra forum that the clockspring needed to be replaced also because of the wiring. Apparently not ture on a 4Runner? Thanks!
 
Theres a harness in there that is basically there to plug the ports. Remove that useless harness and plug in the controls.
 
So, the plugs are already in the steering wheel? Do you tape off the ones you unplug? Maybe I'm not understanding...

The ports are behind your airbag, you just have to plug in the controls. I have a spare set of audio controls with the wires for sale if you're interested let me know.
 
Has anyone also added the controls for the right side of the steering wheel for phone controls from a 2009 to an earlier model like a 2004?
 
I did, not a problem.

There is a page on here somewhere.

I bought a new part from an online source (probably Toyota parts net)

Be careful.

There are 2 codes for the color, only 1 is right, and if memory serves me, they only sell the right one, but double check.
 

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