2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Owner's Manual - Page 48

48 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE How The Airbag System Works • The front airbag control module determines if a frontal impact is severe enough to require the airbags to inflate. The front control module will not detect side, roll over, or rear collisions. The front airbag control module also monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the system whenever the ignition switch is in the START or ON positions. These include all of the items listed above except the knee 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 front 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.