What Makes an Airbag Inflate?

In a deployment event, the sensing system sends an electrical signal triggering a release of gas from the inflator. Gas from the inflator fills the airbag causing the bag to break out of the cover and deploy. The inflator, the airbag, and related hardware are all part of the airbag module.

Frontal airbag modules are located inside the steering wheel and instrument panel. For vehicles with seat-mounted side impact airbags, there are airbag modules in the side of the front seatbacks closest to the door. For vehicles with roof-rail airbags, there are airbag modules in the ceiling of the vehicle, near the side windows that have occupant seating positions.

    See also:

    How Does an Airbag Restrain?
    In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. In moderate to severe side collisions, even belted occupan ...

    Anti-Lock Brake SystemWarning Light
    With the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), this light will come on when you start your engine and may stay on for several seconds, that is normal. A chime may also sound when the light comes on ...

    Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System
    The RKE transmitter will work up to 20m (65 ft) away from the vehicle. Press the key release button to extend the key blade. The key can be used for the ignition and all locks. Press to unlock th ...