Air Bag: Description and Operation

DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG MODULE
The air bag module is mounted in the center of the steering wheel. The air bag module consists of the following components:
- Inflator
- Airbag
- Mounting plate and retainer ring
- Steering wheel trim cover

NOTE: The air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.

Inflator
When the sensors close, signaling a crash, battery voltage flows to the inflator. Inside the inflator, an igniter converts the electrical signal to thermal (heat) energy. This energy causes the ignition of the inflator gas generant. The ignition reaction combusts the sodium azide/copper oxide generant in the inflator, producing nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag.

NOTE: The inflator is a component of the air bag module and is not a serviceable item. The air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.

Air Bag
The air bag:
- is constructed of neoprene coated nylon.
- is 711 mm (28 inches) in diameter.
- fills to a volume of 0.065m (2.3 ft) in approximately 40 milliseconds.

NOTE: The air bag is a component of the air bag module and is not a serviceable item. The air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.

Mounting Plate and Retaining Ring
The mounting plate and retainer ring attach and seal the air bag to the inflator. The mounting bracket is also used to attach the trim cover and mount the air bag module on the steering wheel.

NOTE: The mounting plate and retaining ring are components of the air bag module and are not serviceable items. The air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.

Steering Wheel Trim Cover
The steering wheel trim cover is made of injection-moulded plastic and encases the air bag. When the SRS is activated, tear seams moulded into the steering wheel trim cover separate, allowing inflation of the air bag.

NOTE: The steering wheel trim is a component of the air bag module and is not a serviceable item. The air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.