Air Bag: Description and Operation

SYSTEM OPERATION
Airbag Module
Driver Side
The airbag module protective trim cover is the most visible part of the driver side airbag system. The module is mounted directly to the steering wheel. Located under the airbag module trim cover are the horn switch, the airbag cushion, and the air-bag cushion supporting components. The airbag module includes a housing to which the cushion and inflator are attached and sealed. The airbag module cannot be repaired, and must be replaced if deployed or in any way damaged.

The inflator assembly is mounted to the back of the airbag module. The inflator seals the hole in the airbag cushion so it can discharge the gas it produces directly into the cushion when supplied with the proper electrical signal. The protective trim cover is fitted to the front of the airbag module and forms a decorative cover in the center of the steering wheel. Upon airbag deployment, this cover will split at a predetermined breakout line.

Passenger Side
The airbag door on the instrument panel above the glove box is the most visible part of the passenger side airbag system. Located under the airbag door are the airbag cushion and its supporting components. The airbag module includes a housing to which the cushion and inflator are attached and sealed. The airbag module cannot be repaired, and must be replaced if deployed or in any way damaged.

The inflator assembly is mounted to the back of the airbag module. The inflator includes a small canister of highly compressed argon gas. The inflator seals the hole in the airbag cushion so it can discharge the compressed gas it contains directly into the cushion when supplied with the proper electrical signal. The airbag door is secured to the airbag module and the instrument panel base trim, and has predetermined breakout lines concealed beneath its decorative cover. Upon airbag deployment, the airbag door will split at the breakout lines and the door will pivot out of the way.

The airbag module is secured with screws at the rear to the instrument panel glove box opening reinforcement, and at the front it is secured to a bracket on the instrument panel armature. The airbag module and airbag door are available as separate service items. Following an airbag deployment, the airbag module and airbag door must be replaced.

Storage
An airbag module must be stored in its original, special container until used for service. Also, it must be stored in a clean, dry environment; away from sources of extreme heat, sparks, and high electrical energy. Always place or store an airbag module on a surface with its trim cover or airbag side facing up, to minimize movement in case of an accidental deployment.