Airbag modules
Driver airbag
The airbag module is a housing that includes the airbag itself and the gas generator. The module is installed in the center of the steering wheel hub. The gas generator is installed in the rear side of the housing and has an opening through which gases escape, which almost instantly inflate the pillow when the gas generator receives an electrical signal from the system. The transmission of the command signal to the module occurs through a coil spring mounted on the steering column under the steering wheel. This coil spring assembly can transmit an electrical signal regardless of the position of the steering wheel. The igniter in the airbag converts the electrical signal into heat and ignites the solid propellant charge, which, when burned, produces gases that inflate the airbag.
Driver lower airbag
Some 2004 and later models have a second driver's airbag located under the steering column, slightly forward in front of the knee buffer. Its only job is to protect the driver's knees from serious injury in the event of a collision. To find out if your vehicle is equipped with a driver's lower airbag, refer to the owner's manual that came with your vehicle.
Passenger airbag
The airbag is installed in the front panel on the right side, near the storage compartment. It is similar in design to the driver's airbag, except that it is larger than the steering wheel airbag. The passenger airbag is installed between the bezel reinforcement protein and the underside of the bezel. Finishing (on the dashboard on the passenger side) has a special texture and color matching the color of the front panel. This trim panel has a molded seam that opens when the cushion is inflated.
Side airbags
On some models, additional protection is provided by side airbags. These are smaller devices that are located in the outer sides of the seats and deploy in the event of a severe side impact.
Top side airbags («curtains»)
In addition to the side airbags on some models, additional side impact protection is provided by the head side airbags. These are long airbags that, in the event of a side collision, emerge from the roof lining on each side of the vehicle and inflate into the area between the door windows and the seats. They are designed to protect the heads of passengers occupying the rear and front seats.
Control module
The control module supplies current to the airbag system in the event of a collision, even if the battery supply is cut off. It checks the system each time the engine is started, causing the warning light to turn on and then turn off «air bag» (airbag), if the system is working properly. If there is a problem with the system, the warning light will turn on and stay on, flashing, or a warning tone will sound. If this happens, you should immediately contact the dealer for inspection and service of the car.
System Shutdown and Other Precautions
Attention! Failure to observe these precautions could result in the accidental deployment of the airbag and personal injury.
When working near the steering wheel, steering column, or any of the other elements of the SRS system, disable the system.
To disable the airbag system
- A) Put the wheel in position «straight ahead» and turn the key to the lock position.
- b) Disconnect the wire «masses» from the battery.
- V) Wait at least two minutes for the backup power supply to discharge.
When handling the airbag module
- Always keep the decorative airbag cover away from your torso. Never lay the airbag module with the decorative cover down. Be sure to stow the airbag module in a safe place with the decorative cover up.
- Never measure the resistance of any of the elements of the SRS system. The ohmmeter has a built-in power supply that can trigger accidental airbag deployment.
- Never use electric welding equipment on vehicles equipped with airbags without first disconnecting the electrical connectors of all airbags.
- Never dispose of a failed airbag module. It should be returned to the dealer's service department or other authorized service station for safe deployment and disposal.