1997 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 31

What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch. Therewill be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bag. Air bag inflation doesn't prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it stop people from leaving the vehicle. 0 The air bag is designed to inflate only once. After it inflates. you'll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don't get them, the air bag system won't be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include the air bag module and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts. Your vehicle is equipped with a diagnosticmodule, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system. when the sensors are activated and driver's safety belt usage at deployment. 0 I 0 When an air bag inflates, there is dust in theair. This dust could cause breathing problems for of people with a history asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have breathing problems but can't get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh airby opening a windowor door. Let only qualified technicianswork on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won't work properly. See your dealer for service. NOTICE: If you damage the cover for the driver's air bag, the bag may not work properly. may have to You replace the air bag module. not open or break Do the air bagcover. 1-23