2004 Dodge Caravan Owner's Manual - Page 53

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 53 How The Front Airbag System Works • The front airbag control module determines if a frontal impact is severe enough to require the front airbags to inflate. Based on the level of collision severity, the front airbag control module determines the proper rate of inflation. The front airbag inflators are designed to provide different rates of airbag inflation. The front airbag control module will not detect roll over, or rear collisions. The front airbag control module also monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the system whenever the ignition switch is in the START or ON positions. These include all of the items listed above except the knee bolster, instrument panel and the steering wheel and column. If the key is in the OFF position, in the ACC position, or not in the ignition switch, the front airbags are not on and will not inflate. The front airbag control module sends a message to the instrument cluster to turn on the AIRBAG light in the instrument panel for 6 to 8 seconds when the ignition switch is first turned ON, then turns the light off. If the front control module detects a malfunction in any part of the system, the airbag light will turn on either momentarily or continuously. 2 WARNING! Ignoring the AIRBAG light in your instrument panel could mean you won't have the airbags to protect you in a collision. If the light does not come on, stays on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as you drive, have the airbag system checked right away.