Driver Air Bag Module

NOTE: The driver air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.





The driver air bag module is mounted in the center of the steering wheel. The driver air bag module consists of the following components:
- Inflator
- Airbag
- Mounting plate and retainer ring
- Steering wheel trim cover

Inflator

NOTE: The inflator is a component of the air bag module and is not a serviceable item. The air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.

When the sensors close, signaling a crash, electrical current flows to the inflator. Inside the inflator, an igniter converts the electrical energy to thermal energy (heat) causing the ignition of the inflator gas generant. The ignition reaction combusts the sodium azide/copper oxide generant in the inflator, producing nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag.

Air Bag

NOTE: The air bag is a component of the air bag module and is not a serviceable item. The air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.

The air bag:
- is constructed of neoprene coated nylon.
- is 711 mm (28 inches) in diameter.
- fills to a volume of 0.065 cubic meters (2.3 cubic feet) in approximately 40 milliseconds.

Mounting Plate and Retaining Ring

NOTE: The mounting plate and retaining ring are components of the air bag module and are not serviceable items. The air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.

The mounting plate and retainer ring attach and seal the air bag to the inflator. The mounting bracket is also used to attach the trim cover and mount the air bag module on the steering wheel.

Steering Wheel Trim Cover

NOTE: The steering wheel trim is a component of the air bag module and is not a serviceable item. The air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly.

The steering wheel trim cover is made of injection-molded plastic and encases the air bag. When the SRS is activated, tear seams molded into the steering wheel trim cover separate, allowing inflation of the air bag.