In the event of a frontal collision, the airbags help to protect the head, face and chest of the driver and passenger as well as the knees and legs1 of the driver.
A sufficiently violent collision trips the sensors and the airbag/airbags is inflated. The airbag cushions the initial collision impact for the occupant. The airbag deflates when compressed by the collision. When this occurs, smoke escapes into the car. This is completely normal. The entire process, including inflation and deflation of the airbag, occurs within tenths of a second.
Note
The detectors react differently depending on the nature of the collision and whether or not the seatbelts are fastened. Applies to all belt positions.
It is therefore possible that only one (or none) of the airbags may inflate in a collision. The detectors sense the force of the collision on the vehicle and the action is adapted accordingly so that none, one or more airbags are deployed.
Warning
The seatbelts and airbags interact. If the belt is not used or is used incorrectly, this may diminish the protection provided by the airbag in the event of a collision.
To minimise the risk of injury if the airbag deploys, passengers must sit as upright as possible with their feet on the floor and backs against the backrest.
Warning
Driver airbags
Airbag in the steering wheel
This airbag is fitted into the centre of the steering wheel. The steering wheel is marked AIRBAG.
Knee airbag1
The airbag is folded up in the lower part of the instrument panel on the driver's side. Its cover panel is marked AIRBAG.
Warning
Passenger airbag
The airbag is folded up into a compartment above the glovebox. Its cover panel is marked AIRBAG.
Warning
Label for passenger airbag
The warning label for the passenger airbag is positioned as shown above.
Warning
Warning
Never allow anybody to stand or sit in front of the front passenger seat.
Never use a rear-facing child seat on the front passenger seat if the airbag is activated.
Front-facing passengers (children and adults) must never sit on the front passenger seat if the passenger airbag is deactivated.
Failure to follow the advice given above can endanger life or lead to serious personal injury.