44
Driver and Passenger Safety
•
Sensors that can detect a
moderate to severe frontal
collision.
•
A sophisticated electronic
system that continually
monitors the sensors, control
unit, the airbag activators and
all related wiring when the
ignition is ON (II).
•
An indicator light on the
instrument panel to alert you to
a possible problem with the
system (see page
45
).
•
Emergency backup power in
case your vehicle’s electrical
system is disconnected in a
crash.
How Your Airbags Work
If you ever have a moderate to
severe frontal collision, the
sensors will detect rapid
deceleration and signal the control
unit to instantly inflate the
airbags.
During a crash, your seat belt
helps restrain your lower body
and torso. Your airbag provides a
cushion to help restrain and
protect your head and chest.
Since both airbags use the same
sensors, both airbags normally
inflate at the same time. However,
it is possible for only one airbag
to inflate.
This can occur when the severity
of a collision is at the margin, or
threshold, that determines whether
or not the airbags will deploy. In
such cases, the seat belt will
provide sufficient protection and
the supplemental protection
provided by the airbag would be
minimal.
