Airbags
Airbags
3.16 MODEL S OWNERS MANUAL
How the Airbags Work
Inflation of airbags depends on the rate at
which the vehicle’s cabin changes speed in a
collision. The rate of deceleration determines
whether airbags inflate.
Airbags inflate instantly with considerable
force accompanied by a loud noise. The inflated
bag, together with the seat belts, limits
movement of occupants to reduce the risk of
injury.
Front airbags are not ordinarily designed to
inflate in rear collisions, rollovers, minor front or
side collisions, heavy braking, or driving over
bumps and potholes. Therefore, significant
superficial damage can occur to the vehicle
without the airbags inflating or, conversely, a
relatively small amount of structural damage
can cause airbags to inflate.
If you are planning to modify your vehicle for a
person with disabilities in a way that may affect
the airbag system, contact Tesla.
Types of Airbags
Advanced
front
airbags
The front airbags are advanced
airbags designed to reduce airbag
related injuries to children or small
adults who ride in front. On the
driver’s side, the front airbag
works with a seat position sensor
that adjusts the inflation level
based on the seating position of
the occupant. For safety of infants
and small children, the front
passenger airbag can be disabled
as described on page 3.17.
Knee
airbags
Knee airbags and the front airbags
work together. The knee airbags
limit the forward motion of the
front seat occupants by restricting
leg movement, thereby positioning
the occupants so that the front
airbags work more effectively.
Side
airbags
Side airbags protect the thorax
region of the torso and the pelvis
and inflate only if a severe side
impact occurs. Airbags on the
non-impacted side do not inflate.
Curtain
airbags
Curtain airbags help protect the
head and ordinarily inflate only if a
severe side impact occurs or if the
vehicle rolls over. The airbags on
the non-impacted side do not
inflate.
book.book Page 16 Tuesday, September 17, 2013 12:33 PM
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