Originally Posted by MrFatbooty
Hmm.
I *think* depowered air bags were added to the car at some point in the model run. That would explain the different connectors.
Yes, Mike, you are correct. In 1998, in response to pressure on the NHTSA and DOT, the requirements on SRS airbags were amended, leading to the development of the multi-stage airbag system.
Multi-stage airbags contained more than one squib-type gas generator cartridge. The wiring and controller modules also changed in 1998, become more sophisticated. A multi-stage airbag will inflate with less force in a low-speed frontal collision (by firing only one gas generator cartridge). In a high-speed frontal collision, both gas generator cartridges fire and the airbags deploy faster and with much more force.
While I don't know the specifics of the system used by Honda in the 98+ model years, I do know that common sense dictates not f*cking around with such potentially dangerous componentry. :a:
I'd return the incompatible airbags and either find ones that work - or do without altogether.