Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Driver-Side Air Bag Module
Driver-side air bag module is mounted on front face of steering wheel, encased in steering wheel trim cover. When front impact sensors close, signaling an impact, the ignitor causes ignition of inflator gas generant. This ignition reaction combusts sodium azide/copper oxide gas generant in the inflator, producing nitrogen gas, which inflates air bag.
When air bag deploys, tear seams molded into steering wheel trim cover separate, allowing inflation of the air bag assembly. Driver-side air bag module is not serviceable and must be replaced as a complete assembly.
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.