The side airbags are fitted on the outboard side of the seatbacks of the
front seats. In certain lateral collisions, the airbag on the side affected by
the collision will be inflated. The airbag was designed to inflate between
the door panel and occupant to further enhance the protection provided
occupants in side impact collisions.
The airbag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains lateral
deceleration sufficient to cause the sensors to close an electrical circuit
that initiates airbag inflation.
The fact that the airbags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that
something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were
not of the type sufficient to cause activation. Side airbags are designed
to inflate in side-impact collisions, not roll-over, rear-impact, frontal or
near-frontal collisions, unless the collision causes sufficient lateral
deceleration.
WARNING:
Several air bag system components get hot after
inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.
WARNING:
If the side
airbag has deployed,
the
airbag will not function again.
The side airbag system
(including the seat) must be
inspected and serviced by an
authorized dealer.
If the airbag
is not replaced, the unrepaired
area will increase the risk of injury
in a collision.
Determining if the system is operational
The SRS uses a readiness light in the instrument cluster or a tone to
indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the
Warning lights and
chimes
section in the
Instrument Cluster
chapter. Routine maintenance
of the airbag is not required.
Any difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the
following:
•
The readiness light (same light as used for front airbag system) will
either flash or stay lit.
Seating and Safety Restraints
151
2011 MKX
(mkx)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA
(fus)
