Driver-Side Air Bag Module
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Lincoln Blackwood. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Driver-side air bag module is located in center of steering wheel. When sensors close, signaling an impact, ignitor triggers inflator. During ignition, combustion of potassium nitrate gas generant produces nitrogen gas, which inflates air bag. When air bag deploys, tear-seams molded into steering wheel trim cover separate, allowing inflation of air bag module.