Air Bag, Driver: Operation

The Single-stage Driver AirBag (DAB) is deployed by electrical signals generated by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) through the DAB squib circuits to the initiator in the airbag inflator. When the ORC sends the proper electrical signal to the initiator, the electrical energy generates enough heat to initiate a small pyrotechnic charge, which in turn ignites chemical pellets within the inflator. Once ignited, these chemical pellets burn rapidly and produce a large quantity of inert gas.

The inflator is sealed to the back of the DAB housing and a diffuser in the inflator directs all of the inert gas into the airbag cushion, causing the cushion to inflate. As the cushion inflates, the DAB trim cover will split at predetermined breakout lines, then fold back out of the way. Following a deployment, the airbag cushion quickly deflates by venting the inert gas towards the instrument panel through vent holes within the fabric used to construct the back (steering wheel side) panel of the airbag cushion.

Some of the chemicals used to create the inert gas may be considered hazardous while in their solid state before they are burned, but they are securely sealed within the airbag inflator. The inert gas that is produced when the chemicals are burned during a deployment is harmless. However, a small amount of residue from the burned chemicals may cause some temporary discomfort if it contacts the skin, eyes, or breathing passages. If skin or eye irritation is noted, rinse the affected area with plenty of cool, clean water. If breathing passages are irritated, move to another area where there is plenty of clean, fresh air to breath. If the irritation is not alleviated by these actions, contact a physician.

The ORC monitors the condition of the driver airbag through circuit resistance. If any fault is detected the ORC will illuminate the airbag indicator in the instrument cluster and store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). Proper diagnosis of the DAB initiator and squib circuits requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool and may also require the use of the Airbag Kit. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.