1
18B&OLRBIUDB*T[G 3DJH
CLIO nu665-3
C:\Documentum\Checkout\nu665-3_eng_T1.WIN 12/9/2001 11:03
- page 23
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1.15
METHODS OF RESTRAINT IN ADDITION TO THE FRONT SEAT BELTS
(continued)
Air bags for the driver
and front passenger
(continued)
Each air bag system consists of:
- An air bag and gas generator fitted
in the steering wheel for the driver
and in the dashboard for the front
passenger.
- A computer for both systems,
which
includes
the
impact
detector and a monitor controlling
the electrical trigger system for the
gas generator.
- A single warning light
1
on the
instrument panel.
Operation
The system is only operational
when the ignition is switched on
(ignition
key
in
position
M
:
“Ignition on”).
If a severe
frontal
impact occurs, the
air bag(s) inflate(s) in approximately
30 milliseconds, cushioning the
impact of the driver's head against
the steering wheel and the front
passenger's
head
against
the
dashboard. The air bag then deflates
immediately so that the passengers
are not impeded in any way as they
get out of the car.
The
air
bag
system
uses
the
principles of pyrotechnics. This
explains why, when the air bag
inflates, it will generate heat,
produce 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
must
inflate
immediately and this may cause
some minor, superficial grazing to
the skin.
Faults
Warning light
1
illuminates on the
instrument panel when the ignition
is turned on and then goes out after
a few seconds.
If it does not illuminate when the
ignition is turned on or if it flashes,
there is a fault in the system.
Consult your Renault Dealer as soon
as possible. Your protection will be
reduced
until
this
problem
is
rectified.
