2004 Dodge Dakota Owner's Manual - Page 34

34 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE • The airbag control module also monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the system whenever the ignition switch is in the START or RUN positions. These include all of the items listed above except the knee bolsters, the 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, 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 is first turned on, then turns the light off. If it detects a malfunction in any part of the system, it turns on the light either momentarily or continuously. • When the airbag control module detects a collision requiring the 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 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 front passenger. The driver's front airbag gas is vented through the airbag material 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 front airbag. Passenger Airbag On/Off Switch - If Equipped The passenger front airbag is to be turned off only if the passenger: • is an infant (less than 1 year old) who must ride in the front seat because there is no rear seat, because the rear 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.