Airbag modules
Driver's 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 back of the housing and has an opening through which gases escape, almost instantly inflating the airbag when the gas generator receives an electrical signal from the system. The command signal is transmitted to the module 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 fill the airbag.
Driver's lower airbag
Some 2004 and later models have a second driver airbag located under the steering column, just forward of the knee bolster. Its sole purpose is to protect the driver's knees from serious injury in the event of a collision. To find out if your vehicle has a driver's lower airbag, consult the owner's manual that came with your vehicle.
Passenger airbag
The airbag is mounted 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 in size than the airbag on the steering wheel. The passenger airbag is mounted between the reinforcing squirrel of the front panel and the back of the front panel. Trim (on the front panel on the passenger side) has a special texture and color that matches 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 side of the seats and deploy in the event of a severe side impact.
Upper side airbags ("curtains")
In addition to the side airbags, some models provide additional side impact protection with overhead side airbags. These are long airbags that extend from the roof lining on each side of the car and lower into the area between the door windows and the seats in the event of a side impact. They are designed to protect the heads of passengers in 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 power supply is interrupted. It checks the system every time the engine is started, initiating the "air bag" indicator lamp to turn on and then off (airbag), if the system is working properly. If there is a fault with the system, the indicator light will come on and stay on, flash, or a warning chime will sound. If this happens, have your vehicle checked and serviced by your dealer immediately.
System shutdown and other precautions
Caution: Failure to follow these precautions may result in accidental deployment of the airbag and injury.
When working near the steering wheel, steering column, or any other part of the SRS system, turn the system off.
To disable the airbag system
- a) Place the wheel in the straight ahead position and turn the key to the lock position.
- b) Disconnect the ground wire from the battery.
- c) Wait at least two minutes for the backup power supply to discharge.
When handling the airbag module
- Always keep the air bag decorative cover facing away from your torso. Never place the air bag module with the decorative cover facing down. Always store the air bag module in a safe place with the decorative cover facing up.
- Never measure the resistance of any component of the SRS system. The ohmmeter contains a built-in power source that may trigger accidental deployment of the airbag.
- Never use electric welding equipment on vehicles equipped with air bags without first disconnecting the electrical connectors for all air bags.
- Never dispose of a non-deployed air bag module. It should be returned to the dealer service department or other qualified service station for safe deployment and disposal.