Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Live (Undeployed) Inflator Modules

WARNING: Special care is necessary when handling and storing a live (undeployed) inflator module. The rapid gas generation produced during deployment of the air bag could cause the inflator module or an object in front of the inflator module to be thrown through the air.

When carrying a live inflator module, be sure the air bag and trim cover are pointed away from you. Never carry the inflator module by the wires or by the connector on module. In case of accidental deployment, the air bag will deploy with minimal chance of injury.

When placing air bag modules on a bench or other surface, always face the air bag and trim cover away from the surface. Never rest a steering wheel with the inflator face down and the column vertical. A free space must be provided to allow for air bag expansion in case of accidental deployment.