What Makes an Airbag Inflate?

In an impact of sufficient severity, the airbag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. Additionally, in the case of a “rollover capable” roof-mounted side impact airbag, the sensing system detects that the vehicle is about to roll over. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the airbag. The inflator, airbag, and related hardware are all part of the airbag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger. For vehicles with roof-mounted rollover airbags, the airbag modules, the inflator, and the airbags are located in the ceiling of the vehicle, near the side windows.

    See also:

    LaCrosse Four-Cylinder in the Market
    The four-cylinder LaCrosse is sure to appeal to some buyers, but there's no way it will put much of a dent in the six-cylinder mix. While roughly 80 percent of the best-selling midsize cars are fo ...

    Washer Fluid Messages
    WASHER FLUID LOW ADD FLUID This message may display when the washer fluid level is low. For information on filling the washer fluid, see Washer Fluid . ...

    Compact Spare Tire
    WARNING: Driving with more than one compact spare tire at a time could result in loss of braking and handling. This could lead to a crash and you or others could be injured. Use only one compact ...