suit the monitored impact conditions by providing one of several delay intervals between the electrical signals
provided to the two initiators. The longer the delay between these signals, the less forcefully the airbag will
deploy.
When the ORC sends the proper electrical signals to each initiator, the electrical energy generates enough heat
to initiate a small pyrotechnic charge which, in turn ignites chemical pellets within the inflator. Once ignited,
these chemical pellets burn rapidly and produce a large quantity of inert gas. The inflator is sealed to the back of
the airbag housing and a diffuser in the inflator directs all of the inert gas into the airbag cushion, causing the
cushion to inflate. As the cushion inflates, the driver airbag trim cover will split at predetermined breakout lines,
then fold back out of the way. Following an airbag deployment, the airbag cushion quickly deflates by venting
the inert gas towards the instrument panel through vent holes within the fabric used to construct the back
(steering wheel side) panel of the airbag cushion.
Some of the chemicals used to create the inert gas may be considered hazardous while in their solid state before
they are burned, but they are securely sealed within the airbag inflator. Typically, both initiators are used and all
potentially hazardous chemicals are burned during an airbag deployment event. However, it is possible for only
one initiator to be used during a deployment due to an airbag system fault; therefore, it is necessary to always
confirm that both initiators have been used in order to avoid the improper disposal of potentially live
pyrotechnic or hazardous materials. See SERVICE AFTER A SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
DEPLOYMENT.
The inert gas that is produced when the chemicals are burned is harmless. However, a small amount of residue
from the burned chemicals may cause some temporary discomfort if it contacts the skin, eyes, or breathing
passages. If skin or eye irritation is noted, rinse the affected area with plenty of cool, clean water. If breathing
passages are irritated, move to another area where there is plenty of clean, fresh air to breath. If the irritation is
not alleviated by these actions, contact a physician.
Proper diagnosis of the driver airbag inflator and squib circuits requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer
to the appropriate diagnostic information.
REMOVAL
DRIVER AIRBAG
WARNING:
To avoid serious or fatal injury on vehicles equipped with airbags, disable
the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) before attempting any steering
wheel, steering column, airbag, Occupant Classification System (OCS),
seat belt tensioner, impact sensor, or instrument panel component
diagnosis or service. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative (ground)
cable, then wait two minutes for the system capacitor to discharge before
performing further diagnosis or service. This is the only sure way to
disable the SRS. Failure to take the proper precautions could result in
accidental airbag deployment.
WARNING:
To avoid serious or fatal injury when removing a deployed airbag, rubber
gloves, eye protection, and a long-sleeved shirt should be worn. There
may be deposits on the airbag cushion and other interior surfaces. In
2007 Dodge Nitro R/T
2007 RESTRAINTS Service Information - Nitro