Curtain Airbag: Description
Optional side curtain airbags are available for this model when it is also equipped with dual front airbags. These airbags are passive, inflatable, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) components, and vehicles with this equipment can be readily identified by a molded identification trim button with the "SRS - AIRBAG" logo located on the headliner above each B-pillar. This system is designed to reduce injuries to the vehicle occupants in the event of a side impact collision.
Vehicles equipped with side curtain airbags have two individually controlled curtain airbag units. These airbag units are concealed and mounted above the headliner where they are each secured to one of the roof side rails. Each folded airbag cushion is contained within a long extruded plastic channel that extends along the roof rail from the A-pillar at the front of the vehicle to just behind the C-pillar at the rear of the vehicle. A long tether extends down the A-pillar from the front of the airbag cushion. The end of the tether is secured to a slot in the sheet metal with a metal hook, while two additional plastic clips secure the tether to the inside of the A-pillar.
The hybrid-type inflator for each airbag is secured to the roof rail at the rear of the airbag unit between the C-pillar and the D-pillar, and is connected to the airbag cushion by a long tubular manifold. The inflator bracket and the extruded airbag cushion channel are secured with both plastic push-in fasteners and screws to the roof rail. The inflator is initially hung from the roof rail by hooks that are integral to the inflator bracket. The airbag inflator is connected to the vehicle electrical system through a dedicated take out and connector of the body wire harness near the top of the D-pillar.
The side curtain airbag unit cannot be adjusted or repaired and must be replaced if deployed, faulty, or in any way damaged. Once a side curtain airbag has been deployed, the complete airbag unit, the headliner, the upper A, B, and C-pillar trim, and all other visibly damaged components must be replaced.