2000 Mercury Cougar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 124

Seating and safety restraints How does the side air bag system work? (if equipped) Side air bags, in combination with seat belts, can help reduce the risk of severe injuries in the event of a significant side impact collision. The side air bags are fitted on the outboard side of the seatbacks of the front seats. In certain lateral collisions, the air bag on the side affected by the collision will be inflated, even if the respective seat is not occupied. The air bag was designed to inflate between the door panel and occupant to further enhance the protection provided occupants in side impact collisions. The side air bags are not activated upon minor lateral, front or rear impact collisions. Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation. 124