airbag unit cannot be repaired and must be replaced if deployed, ineffective, or in any way damaged.
OPERATION
PASSENGER AIRBAG
The multistage passenger airbag is deployed by electrical signals generated by the Occupant Restraint
Controller (ORC) through the passenger airbag squib 1 and squib 2 circuits to the two initiators of the hybrid
airbag inflator. By using two initiators, the airbag can be deployed at multiple levels of force. The force level is
controlled by the ORC to 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 produces the pressure necessary to rupture a containment disk in an
inert gas canister. The inflator and inert gas canister are sealed to the airbag cushion 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 passenger airbag door will split horizontally at predetermined tear seam lines concealed on the inside
surface of the door. The upper half of the door pivots up and the lower half pivots down and out of the way.
Following an airbag deployment, the airbag cushion quickly deflates by venting the inert gas through a vent
hole in each fabric side panel of the airbag cushion.
Typically, both initiators are used 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 materials. See SERVICE AFTER A SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT DEPLOYMENT.
Proper diagnosis of the passenger airbag inflator and the passenger airbag squib circuits requires the use of a
diagnostic scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
REMOVAL
PASSENGER 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 unit and other interior surfaces. In large
2007 Dodge Nitro R/T
2007 RESTRAINTS Service Information - Nitro