Driver-Side Air Bag Module
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford RV Cutaway, 2002 Ford Econoline, 2002 Ford E550 Super Duty, 2002 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2002 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Air bag module is located in center of steering wheel, encased in steering wheel trim cover. When primary crash sensor and safing sensor signal an impact, ignitor ignites inflator gas generant. This reaction ignites sodium azide/copper oxide gas generant in inflator, producing nitrogen gas, inflating air bag.
When air bag is activated, tear seams molded into steering wheel trim cover separate, allowing inflation of air bag assembly. Air bag module is only serviced as a complete assembly.