2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Owner Manual Convertible - Page 45

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 45 bolster, instrument panel and the steering wheel and column. If the key is in the OFF position, in the ACC position, or not in the ignition switch, the airbags are not on and will not inflate. The airbag control module also turns on the AIRBAG light in the instrument panel for 6 to 8 seconds when the ignition switch is first turned ON, then turns the light off. If the front or side airbag control modules detect a malfunction in any part of the system, the airbag light will turn on either momentarily or continuously. WARNING! Ignoring the AIRBAG light in your instrument panel could mean you won't have the airbags to protect you in a collision. If the light does not come on, stays on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as you drive, have the airbag system checked right away. • When the airbag control module detects a collision requiring the front airbags, it signals the inflator units. A large quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to inflate the front airbags. The front airbag covers separate and fold out of the way as the front airbags inflate to their full size. The front airbags fully inflate in about 50 milliseconds. This is only about half of the time it takes you to blink your eyes. The front airbags then quickly deflate while helping to restrain the driver and front passenger. The driver's front airbag gas is vented through the airbag material towards the instrument 2