2004 Dodge Viper Owner's Manual - Page 41

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 41 all of the items listed above except the knee bolster, the instrument panel, and the steering wheel and column. The Diagnostic Unit also turns on the AIRBAG light in the instrument panel for 6 to 8 seconds when the ignition is first turned on, then turns the light off. If it detects a malfunction in any part of the system, it turns on the light either momentarily or continuously. • The Airbag/Inflator Units are in the center of the steering wheel and in the instrument panel. The words SRS/AIRBAG are embossed on the airbag covers. WARNING! Do not put anything on or around the airbag covers or attempt to manually open them. You may damage the airbags and you could be injured because the airbags are not there to protect you. These protective covers for the airbag cushions are designed to open only when the airbags are inflating. • When the crash sensors detect an impact requiring the airbags, they signal the inflator units. A large quantity of non toxic nitrogen gas is generated to inflate the airbags. The airbag covers separate and fold out of the way as the airbags inflate to their full size. The airbags fully inflate in about 50 milliseconds. This is only about half of the time it takes you to blink your eyes. The airbags then quickly deflate while helping to restrain the driver and right front passenger. The airbag gas is vented through the airbag material 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.