This passenger airbag switch is a direct-fit control used to enable or disable the front passenger airbag on a range of Citroën and Peugeot vehicles. It is frequently searched and ordered by its part numbers 96373645XT and 8216F2, so technicians and DIYers can quickly find the exact replacement. The switch provides a secure mechanical and electrical interface to the airbag system, allowing safe installation of child seats or temporary deactivation where required by vehicle configuration and local regulations.

Function And Application

The switch allows the driver or service technician to deactivate or activate the front passenger airbag. This is especially important when securing a rear-facing child seat in the front passenger position where the airbag would present a safety risk. The unit is designed to integrate with the vehicle’s restraint control system and communicates its status to the dashboard airbag indicator.

Technical Information

• Manufacturer: Stellantis (Citroën / Peugeot)
• Model(s): Citroën Berlingo, Citroën C5, Citroën Xsara Picasso, Peugeot Partner
• Product Codes: 96373645XT, 8216F2
• Other Numbers: Not Available

Replacement Procedure

• Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait at least 10 minutes to allow the airbag system capacitors to discharge before starting work.
• Access: Depending on the model, the switch is typically mounted in the passenger-side dashboard, glovebox frame, or a trim panel accessible when the passenger door is open.
• Removal: Remove the relevant trim panels, unscrew or unclip the switch from its bracket, and disconnect the electrical connector carefully to avoid damage to locking tabs.
• Fitting: Connect the new switch, secure it in the original position with the correct fasteners, and reinstall trim panels. Ensure connectors are fully seated and wiring is routed without pinches.
• Verification: Reconnect the battery, start the vehicle and verify proper function by observing the passenger airbag indicator and using the switch to toggle the airbag state. If the airbag warning lamp remains on, perform a diagnostic scan to clear or identify stored fault codes.

Installation Recommendations

• Work in a well-lit area and follow manufacturer safety procedures for SRS components—airbags are explosive devices and can cause injury if mishandled.
• Always disconnect the battery and wait the recommended time before touching SRS connectors or modules.
• Inspect connector pins and wiring for corrosion or damage; replace or repair any compromised wiring before fitting the new switch.
• Use correct trim removal tools to avoid damaging panels; replace broken clips or screws.
• After installation, confirm the airbag indicator behaves correctly. In some cases a diagnostic tool may be required to clear faults or confirm system status.

Most Common Failure Reasons

• Corrosion Or Moisture Ingress: Exposure to humidity or liquid spills can corrode internal contacts and cause intermittent or permanent failure.
• Mechanical Wear: Frequent switching or physical force can wear the actuator or internal contact points.
• Connector Or Wiring Damage: Pinched, stretched or damaged wiring and connectors from previous repairs or accidents.
• Impact Damage: Collision or strong impact to the dashboard area can deform the switch assembly or mounting points.
• Contamination: Dirt and debris ingress can impair the switch mechanism.

When ordering, use the product codes 96373645XT or 8216F2 to ensure fitment for the listed Citroën and Peugeot models. Proper replacement restores the ability to safely manage the passenger airbag state and maintains compliance with vehicle safety requirements.

The switch’s primary function is to provide a clear ON/OFF state for the passenger airbag and to communicate that status to the vehicle’s SRS system. A correctly functioning switch is essential for occupant safety and for meeting legal requirements regarding airbag deactivation.

Common Failure Symptoms: illuminated airbag warning lamp, inability to switch between ON and OFF, loose or sticking lock mechanism, or intermittent contact in the connector. Such faults can prevent correct indication of airbag status and should be addressed promptly to ensure safe operation.

Installation Tips

Always disconnect the battery and wait at least 10–15 minutes before working on the SRS system. Removal usually involves prying off the plastic trim or glovebox panel, unplugging the electrical connector and releasing the switch clips. During installation ensure the connector is fully seated and the switch is securely clipped into the panel. After reconnecting the battery verify the airbag warning light behavior and the switch function. If the warning lamp remains lit, perform a diagnostic scan of the BSI/airbag control unit and clear any stored faults.

Compatibility

Commonly fitted to Citroën Berlingo, Citroën C5, Citroën Xsara, Citroën Xsara Picasso and Peugeot Partner (selected model years and equipment levels). Always confirm fitment by part number 8216F2 / 96373645ZL or by VIN in the PSA parts catalogue.

Technical Information

• Manufacturer: PSA (Citroën / Peugeot)
• Model: Citroën Berlingo, Citroën C5, Citroën Xsara, Citroën Xsara Picasso, Peugeot Partner
• Product Codes: 8216F2
• Other Numbers: 96373645ZL

Suitable as a direct replacement for a faulty passenger airbag switch. Keywords: Passenger airbag switch, airbag deactivation switch, Airbag Passenger ON/OFF switch, airbag lock, Citroën, Peugeot, 8216F2, 96373645ZL.

The Passenger Airbag Switch for Citroën & Peugeot with OEM numbers 96373645ZD, 96373645ZL and reference 8216F2 is a direct-fit replacement designed for professional mechanics and competent DIY enthusiasts. It enables manual deactivation of the front passenger airbag to safely accommodate child seats or rear-facing restraints when required.

Function And Symptoms

This switch controls the activation state of the passenger airbag and communicates status to the vehicle’s airbag indicator. Common symptoms of a faulty unit include a persistent passenger airbag warning light, inability to toggle the airbag on or off, or related diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) module.

Replacement And Installation

The switch is typically located in the passenger-side dashboard trim or inside the glovebox. Replacement workflow for a competent technician: disconnect the vehicle battery and follow all manufacturer safety procedures, remove the relevant trim panels to access the switch, unplug the electrical connector, remove the faulty switch and install the new unit, then reassemble. After installation, verify indicator behaviour and clear any SRS fault codes with an appropriate diagnostic tool.

Causes Of Failure And Service Life

Failures usually result from internal wear, connector corrosion, moisture ingress, or damage from impacts or accidents. There is no fixed service interval; a properly functioning switch can last many years, but electrical faults or physical damage may require earlier replacement.

Benefits

Provides a direct-fit solution that restores passenger airbag control, carries OEM reference numbers for easy identification, and simplifies repairs for workshops and DIYers. Ensures correct airbag disablement when child seats or other special passenger conditions require it.

Technical Information

Manufacturer: PSA (Citroën / Peugeot)
Model: Various Citroën and Peugeot models — verify fitment by part number
Product Codes: 96373645ZD, 96373645ZL
Additional Numbers: 8216F2