METHODS OF RESTRAINT IN ADDITION TO THE FRONT SEAT BELTS
2
force of the belt against the body so
that it is at an acceptable level.
Airbags for driver and front
passenger
Fitted to the driver and passenger
side.
The presence of this equipment is in-
dicated by the word “Air bag” on the
steering wheel and dashboard (air
bag zone
A
) and, depending on the
vehicle, a symbol on the lower sec-
tion of the windscreen.
Each air bag system consists of:
– an air bag and gas generator fit-
ted on the steering wheel for the dri-
ver and in the dashboard for the
front passenger;
– an electronic unit for system moni-
toring which controls the gas gener-
ator electrical trigger system;
– a single warning light on the
instrument panel.
The air bag system us-
es pyrotechnic princi-
ples. This explains why,
when the air bag in-
flates, it will generate heat, pro-
duce smoke (this does not
mean that a fire is about to
start) and make a noise upon
detonation. In a situation where
an air bag is required, it will in-
flate immediately and this may
cause some minor, superficial
grazing to the skin or other
problems.
Operation
This system is only operational when
the ignition is switched on.
In a severe frontal impact, the air
bags inflate rapidly, cushioning the
impact of the driver’s head and
chest against the steering wheel
and of the front passenger against
the dashboard. The air bags then de-
flate immediately so that the pas-
sengers are not in any way hindered
from leaving the vehicle.
Getting to know your vehicle - 31
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