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:

    Navigation System
    The vehicle’s navigation system provides detailed maps of most major freeways and roads throughout the United States and Canada. After a destination has been set, the system provides turn-by-t ...

    How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System
    Reset the system whenever the engine oil is changed so that the system can calculate the next engine oil change. To reset the system: 1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with the engine off. 2. Press t ...

    Setting Preset Stations
    Up to 30 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM, six XM1 and six XM2 (if equipped), can be programed on the six numbered pushbuttons, by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. ...