© Copyright Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. 082014
6-3
6.2.3 Airbag Inflation/Deployment
The airbag sensors constantly monitor the forward deceleration of the vehicle. If an
impact results in a forward deceleration beyond the designed threshold level, the
system triggers the airbag inflators. This initiates a chemical reaction which quickly
fills the airbags with non-toxic gas.
Upon deployment, tear seams molded directly into the pad covers separate under
pressure from the expansion of the airbags. Further opening of the covers allows full
inflation of the airbags. A fully inflated airbag, in combination with a properly worn
seat belt, slows the driver's or the passenger's forward motion, reducing the risk of
head and chest injury.
After complete inflation, the airbag immediately starts deflating, enabling the driver
to maintain forward visibility and the ability to maneuver or operate other controls.
Deployment of the airbags happen in a fraction of a second, producing a loud noise
releasing a ‘white smoke’ and residue along with a non-toxic gas. This does not
indicate a fire. This smoke may remain inside the vehicle for some time, and may
cause some minor irritation to the eyes, skin or breathing. Be sure to wash off any
residue with soap and water as soon as possible to prevent any potential skin
irritation. If you can safely exit the vehicle, you should do so immediately.
•
Do not modify, remove, strike or open the seat belt pre-tensioner
assemblies, airbag sensor or surrounding area or wiring. Failure to follow
these instructions may prevent them from activating correctly, cause
sudden operation of the system or disable the system, which could result in
serious injury
•
Parts of the airbag module (steering wheel hub, airbag cover and inflator)
may be hot for several minutes after deployment. The airbags inflate only
once
•
Do not cover the steering wheel, instrument panel, seats with any object (e.g.
dash panel covers, seat covers) which may prevent the airbags from inflating
properly
•
The airbags inflate with considerable force. While the system is designed to
reduce serious injuries, primarily to the head and chest, it may also cause
other, less severe injuries to the face, chest, arms and hands. These are
usually in the nature of minor burns or abrasions and swelling, but the force
of a deploying airbag can also cause more serious injuries, especially if an
occupant's hands, arms, chest or head is in close proximity to the airbag
module at the time of deployment. Sit straight and well back into the seat.
Move your seat as far back as practical to allow room for airbag inflation,
while still allowing you to properly operate/drive the vehicle
The front passenger should never sit on the edge of the seat, stand near the
glove compartment, rest feet or other parts of the body on the dashboard
when the vehicle is moving.
C
O
RRECT SEAT BELT
POSITIONING
W12F03
The driver or front passenger who is too close to the steering wheel or
dashboard can be seriously injured during airbag deployment.
•
The driver must sit as far back as possible from the steering wheel while still
maintaining control of the vehicle
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) (if equipped)
