Driver-Side Air Bag Module

Driver-side air bag module is mounted on front face of steering wheel, encased in steering wheel trim cover. See Figure . When front impact sensors close, signaling a front 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.