•The airbag control module also monitors the readiness
of the electronic parts of the system whenever the
ignition switch is in the START or RUN positions.
These include all of the items listed above except the
knee bolster, the instrument panel, and the steering
wheel and column. If the key is in the“off”position, in
the ACC position, or not in the ignition, the airbags are
not on and will not inflate.
•The airbag control module also turns on the
AIRBAGlight in the instrument panel for 6 to
8 seconds when the ignition is first turned on,
then turns the light off. If it detects a malfunction in
any part of the system, it turns on the light either
momentarily or continuously.
WARNING!
Ignoring the AIRBAG light in your instrument panel
could mean you won’t have the airbags to protect
you in a collision. If the light does not come on, stays
on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as you
drive, have the airbag system checked right away.
•When the airbag control module detects a collision
requiring the airbags, it signals the inflator units. A
large quantity of nontoxic gas exits the airbag inflator
and inflates the airbag. Two levels of airbag inflation
rates are possible. These rates are determined by the
airbag control module based on collision severity. The
airbag covers separate and fold out of the way as the
airbags inflate to their full size. The airbags fully
inflate in about 60 milliseconds. This is only about half
of the time it takes you to blink your eyes. The airbags
then quickly deflate while helping to restrain the
driver and front passenger. The driver’s front airbag
gas is vented through a vent hole in the rear of the
airbag. The passenger’s front airbag gas is vented
through vent holes in the sides of the airbag. In this
way the airbags do not interfere with your control of
the vehicle.
•The Knee Impact Bolsters help protect the knees and
position you for the best interaction with the front
airbag.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33
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