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:

    Steering in Emergencies
    There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts o ...

    Rear Door Security Locks
    Rear door security locks prevent passengers from opening the rear doors from the inside. The rear door security locks are located on the inside edge of each rear door. The rear doors must be ...

    Roadside Assistance Program
    For U.S. purchased vehicles, call 1-800-252-1112; (Text Telephone (TTY): 1-888-889-2438). For Canadian purchased vehicles, call 1-800-268-6800. Service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year ...