1997 Nissan Pathfinder Owner's Manual - Page 64

The seat belts should be correctly worn and the driver and passenger seated upright as far as practical away from the steering wheel or dashboard. Since the supplemental air bag inflates quickly in order to help protect the occupant, the force of the supplemental air bag inflating can increase the risk of injury if the occupant is too close to or is against the supplemental air bag module during inflation. The supplemental air bag will deflate quickly after a collision. After turning the ignition key to the "ON" position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates. The supplemental air bag warning light will turn off after about 7 seconds if the system is operational. SPA0390B Supplemental air bag system The driver supplemental air bag is located in the center of the steering wheel; the front passenger supplemental air bag is mounted in the dashboard above the glove box. The supplemental air bag system is designed to inflate in higher severity frontal collisions, although it may inflate if the forces in another type of collision are similar to those of a higher severity frontal impact. It may not inflate in certain frontal collisions. Vehicle damage (or lack of it) is not always an indication of proper supplemental air bag operation. When the supplemental air bag inflates, a fairly loud noise may be heard, followed by release of smoke. This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate a fire, but care should be taken not to inhale it, as it may cause irritation and choking. Those with a history of breathing trouble should get fresh air promptly. Supplemental air bags, along with the use of seat belts, help to cushion the impact force on the face and chest of the occupant. They can help save lives and reduce serious injuries. However, an inflating supplemental air bag may cause facial abrasions or other injuries. Supplemental air bags do not provide restraint to the lower body. ¼ Do not attach any objects to the steering wheel pad and to the instrument panel. Also, do not place any objects between any occupant and the steering wheel or instrument panel. Such objects may become dangerous projectiles and cause injury if the supplemental air bag inflates. 2-23