2004 Dodge Caravan Owner's Manual - Page 54

54 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE • When the front 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. Different front airbag inflation rates are possible, these rates are determined by the front airbag control module based on collision severity. The front airbag covers separate and fold out of the way as the 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 and passenger's front airbag gas is vented through the airbag material towards the instrument panel. In this way the front 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 front airbags. Side Airbags Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - If Equipped The Side Airbag System, if equipped, consists of the following: • AIRBAG Readiness Light (shared with the front airbag system) • Side Airbag in the driver's seat • Side Airbag in the passenger's seat • Front Airbag Control Module (with integrated side impact sensor - if equipped) • Interconnecting Wiring How The Side Airbag System Works The front airbag control modules determine if a side collision is severe enough to require the side airbags to inflate. The front airbag control modules will not detect roll over, or rear collisions.