2004 Dodge Neon Owner's Manual - Page 36

36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE • 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 to ON/RUN, 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. 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 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 50 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.