2004 Dodge Neon Owner's Manual - Page 37

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 37 • The knee impact bolsters help protect the knees and position you for the best interaction with the front airbag. If A Deployment Occurs The airbag system is designed to deploy when the Airbag Control Module detects a moderate-to-severe frontal collision, to help restrain the driver and front passenger, and then to immediately deflate. NOTE: A frontal collision that is not severe enough to need airbag protection will not activate the system. This does not mean something is wrong with the airbag system. If you do have a collision which deploys the airbags, any or all of the following may occur: • The nylon airbag material may sometimes cause abrasions and/or skin reddening to the driver and front passenger as the airbags deploy and unfold. The abrasions are similar to friction rope burns or those you might get sliding along a carpet or gymnasium floor. They are not caused by contact with chemicals. They are not permanent and normally heal quickly. However, if you have not healed significantly within a few days, or if you have any blistering, see your doctor immediately. • As the airbags deflate you may see some smoke-like particles. The particles are a normal by-product of the process that generates the nontoxic gas used for airbag inflation. These airborne particles may irritate the skin, eyes, nose, or throat. If you have skin or eye irritation, rinse the area with cool water. For nose or throat irritation, move to fresh air. If the irritation continues, see your doctor. If these particles settle on your clothing, follow the garment manufacturer's instructions for cleaning. • It is not advisable to drive your vehicle after the airbags have deployed. If you are involved in another collision, the airbags will not be in place to protect you. 2