Air Bag: Description and Operation

WARNING: NEVER DISASSEMBLE THE DRIVER/PASSENGER AIRBAG MODULE, THERE ARE NO SERVICEABLE PARTS WITHIN THE MODULES.




DRIVER AIRBAG MODULE
The Driver Airbag Module located on the steering wheel is the most visible part of the system. It contains the airbag cushion and its supporting components. The airbag module contains a housing to which the cushion and inflator are attached and sealed.

The driver side inflator assembly is mounted from the back of the module housing. When supplied with the proper electrical signal the inflator assembly will produce a gas and discharge it directly into the cushion. A protective cover is fitted to the front of the Driver Airbag Module and forms a decorative cover in the center of the steering wheel. The driver airbag module is mounted directly to the steering wheel.




PASSENGER
The Passenger Airbag Module is located beneath the decorative cover of the instrument panel, facing the passenger seat.

The passenger inflator assembly is within the module housing. The module is mounted to the upper and lower instrument panel. When supplied with the proper electrical signal the inflator will produce a gas and discharge it directly into the cushion. A protective cover is fitted into the instrument panel over the Passenger Airbag Module. This cover will pivot out of the way and allow the cushion to fully inflate.


CIRCUIT OPERATION
Airbag Squib (Airbag Igniter)
Driver's Side Airbag
Two circuits, R43 and R45, connect the ACM to the driver's side Airbag squib (igniter) after passing through the clock spring connector. Circuit R43 from cavity 3 of the ACM 4-way connector connects to the squib. Circuit R45 from cavity 4 of the ACM 4-way connector connects to the squib. R43 and R45 are a twisted pair of wires.

Passenger's Side Airbag
Two circuits, R42 and R44, connect the ACM to the passenger's side Airbag squib (igniter). Circuit R42 from cavity 1 of the ACM 4-way connector connects to the squib. Circuit R44 from cavity 2 of the ACM 4-way connector connects to the squib. R42 and R44 are a twisted pair of wires.