What Makes an Airbag Inflate?

In a deployment event, the sensing system sends an electrical signal triggering a release of gas from the inflator. Gas from the inflator fills the airbag causing the bag to break out of the cover and deploy. The inflator, the airbag, and related hardware are all part of the airbag module.

Frontal airbag modules are located inside the steering wheel and instrument panel. For vehicles with seat-mounted side impact airbags, there are airbags modules in the side of the front seatbacks closest to the door. For vehicles with roof-rail airbags, there are airbag modules in the ceiling of the vehicle, near the side windows that have occupant seating positions.

    See also:

    Voice Recognition
    The Bluetooth system uses voice recognition to interpret voice commands to dial phone numbers and name tags. For additional information, say “Help” while you are in a voice recognition menu. Noi ...

    All-Wheel Drive
    It is not necessary to check the all-wheel drive lubricant levels. A fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to the dealer as soon as possible. ...

    Cooling System
    If the vehicle has the Duramax® Diesel engine, see the Duramax® Diesel Supplement for more information. The cooling system allows the engine to maintain the correct working temperature. 5.3 L En ...