2003 Lexus GX 470 Owners Manual - Page 638

COMFORT ADJUSTMENT " 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Side and curtain shield airbag sensor assemblies Airbag module for front passenger (airbag and inflator) Curtain shield airbag modules (airbag and inflator) Side airbag modules (airbag and inflator) Curtain shield airbag sensor assemblies SRS warning light Airbag module for driver (airbag and inflator) Driver's seat position sensor Driver's seat belt buckle switch Front airbag sensors Airbag sensor assembly The airbag sensors constantly monitor the forward deceleration of the vehicle. In an impact results in a forward deceleration beyond the designed threshold level, the system triggers the airbag inflators. In a severe side impact, the side and curtain shield airbag sensor and/or the curtain shield airbag sensor trigger(s) the side and curtain shield airbag inflators and/or the curtain shield airbag inflator. At this time a chemical reaction in the inflators very quickly fills the airbags with non−toxic gas to help restrain the forward or lateral motion of the occupants. The front airbags then quickly deflate, so that there is no obstruction of the driver's vision should it be necessary to continue driving. When the airbags inflate, they produce a loud noise and release some smoke and residue along with non−toxic gas. This does not indicate a fire. This smoke may remain inside the vehicle for some time, and may cause some minor irritation to the eyes, skin or breathing. Be sure to wash off any residue as soon as possible to prevent any potential skin irritation with soap and water. If you can physically and safely exit the vehicle after a collision, you should do so at the first opportunity. The SRS airbag system consists mainly of the above components, and their locations are shown in the illustration. The airbag sensor assembly consists of a safing sensor and airbag sensor. 141