Driver's airbag, design - GF91.60-P-4001-03GC

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 42 other vehicles, including the 1999 Mercedes-Benz S600, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S500, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S420, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S320, and 1999 Mercedes-Benz CL600. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Models 129, 140, 168, 170, 202, 208, 210

A squib (R12/3) is present in the gas generator for igniting the solid propellant.

A connector (1) connects the squib with the electronic circuitry in the supplemental restraint system. In order to avoid erroneous actuation the squib is equipped with a short circuit bridge which short circuits the connection to the squib automatically when the connector is disconnected. The electrical connection to the squib from the rotating steering wheel to the body leads through the clock spring contact.

Fig 1: Identifying Squib And Connector

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

The housing for the driver airbag is screwed to the center of the steering wheel. The housing is padded on the driver side. The padding with the Mercedes-Benz symbol and lettering "SRS AIRBAG" is provided with a planned breaking point to allow the airbag to exit.

A gas generator filled with solid propellant is located in the housing. The airbag is stored folded together on top of this gas generator when it is not inflated. The airbag, consisting of high quality tear resistant nylon fabric, is connected permanently to the gas generator by a filter.