Driver Air Bag Module

NOTE: The driver air bag module is serviced as a complete assembly. Perform proper disposal procedure.

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.
^ air bag.
^ mounting plate and retainer ring.
^ steering wheel trim cover.

Inflator
The inflator assembly is not a serviceable item.
^ When the sensors close, signaling a crash, electrical energy flows to the air bag inflator.
^ Inside the inflator, an igniter converts the electrical signal to thermal energy (heat), causing the ignition of the inflator gas generant.
^ This ignition reaction causes combustion of the sodium azide/cupric oxide gas generant in the inflator, producing nitrogen gas which inflates the air bag.

Air Bag
The driver air bag:
^ is constructed of nylon.
^ is 672 mm (26.5 inches) in diameter.
^ fills to a volume of about 0.057 cubic meter (2.0 cubic feet) in approximately 40 milliseconds.
^ is not a serviceable item.

Mounting Plate and Retainer Ring
The mounting plate and retainer ring:
^ attach and seal the air bag assembly to the inflator.
^ also attach the trim cover and mount the entire driver air bag module to the steering wheel.
^ are components of the driver air bag module and cannot be serviced.

Steering Wheel Trim Cover
The steering wheel trim cover:
^ encases driver air bag module.
^ has moulded-in tear seams that separate to allow inflation of the bag.
^ is a component of the driver air bag module and is not serviceable.
^ must not be repainted for any reason.