Driver Side Air Bag Module

NOTE: The driver side air bag module contains no serviceable components and is serviced as a complete assembly.

The driver side air bag module is mounted in the center of the steering wheel.

The driver side air bag module consists of the following components:
- Inflator
- Airbag
- Mounting plate and retainer ring
- Steering wheel trim cover

Inflator
When the sensors close, signaling a crash, battery voltage flows to the inflator. Inside the inflator, an igniter converts the electrical signal to thermal (heat) energy. This energy causes the ignition of the inflator gas generant. The ignition reaction combusts the sodium nitrate I boron potassium nitrate generant in the inflator, producing nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag.

Air Bag
The air bag inflates and splits through the steering wheel trim cover, then unfolds in front of the driver. After inflation, the air bag immediately deflates through holes in the air bag.

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

Steering Wheel Trim Cover
The steering wheel trim cover is made of injection-moulded plastic and encases the air bag. When the driver side air bag module is activated, the tear seams moulded into the steering wheel trim cover separate, allowing inflation of the air bag.