Renault Espace, Driver'S Handbook Manual, Page: 39 / 314

1.33
METHODS OF RESTRAINT IN ADDITION TO THE FRONT SEAT BELTS
(2/4)
Load limiter
Above a certain severity of impact, this
mechanism is used to limit the force of
the belt against the body so that it is at
an acceptable level.
Air bags 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 section of the
windscreen.
Each air bag system consists of:
– an air bag and gas generator fitted
on the steering wheel for the driver
and in the dashboard for the front
passenger;
– an electronic unit for system monitor-
ing which controls the gas generator
electrical trigger system;
– remote sensors;
– a single warning light
å
on the
instrument panel.
A
The airbag system oper-
ates using the principles of
pyrotechnics. When the air
bag inflates, it will gener-
ate heat, produce smoke (this does
not mean that a fire is about to start)
and make a banging noise. In a situ-
ation where an airbag is required, it
will inflate immediately and this may
cause some minor, superficial graz-
ing to the skin or other problems.