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:

    Rear Axle
    When to Check Lubricant It is not necessary to regularly check rear axle fluid unless you suspect there is a leak or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss could indicate a problem. Have it inspe ...

    How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
    This section is only for people of adult size. There are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and infants. If a child wil ...

    Trunk Release
    The trunk may be opened by pressing on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter or the touch pad located on the rear of the trunk above the license plate. See Trunk for more information. ...