2004 Chrysler Concorde Owner Manual - Page 38

38 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE • When the airbag control module detects an impact requiring the front airbags, it signals the inflator units. A large quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to inflate the airbags. The airbag covers separate and fold out of the way as the airbags inflate to their full size. The airbags fully inflate in about 60 milliseconds. This is only about half of the time it takes you to blink your eyes. The airbags then quickly deflate while helping to restrain the driver and right front passenger. The driver's front airbag gas is vented towards the instrument panel. The passenger's front airbag gas is vented through vent holes in the sides of the airbag. In this way the airbags do not interfere with your control of the vehicle. • The Knee Impact Bolsters help protect the knees and position you for the best interaction with the airbags. If A Deployment Occurs The airbag system is designed to deploy when the airbag control module detects a moderate-to-severe frontal collision, to help restrain the driver and right front passenger, and then to immediately deflate. NOTE: A frontal collision that is not severe enough to need airbag protection will not activate the system. This does not mean something is wrong with the airbag system. If you do have a collision which deploys the airbags, any or all of the following may occur: • The nylon airbag material may sometimes cause abrasions and/or skin reddening to the driver and right front passenger as the airbags deploy and unfold. The abrasions are similar to friction rope burns or those you might get sliding along a carpet or gymnasium floor. They are not caused by contact with chemicals. They are not permanent and normally heal quickly. However, if you haven't healed significantly within a few days, or if you have any blistering, see your doctor immediately.