Driver-Side Air Bag Module
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Mercury Villager. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
When impact sensor and safing sensor close, signaling an impact, the ignitor activates inflator gas generator. In the ensuing chemical reaction, sodium nitrate/boron potassium nitrate gas generant in the inflator produces nitrogen gas, which inflates air bag.
When air bag is activated, tear seams molded into steering wheel trim cover separate, allowing inflation of the air bag assembly. Air bag module is only serviced as a complete assembly.