1997 Ford Aspire Owner's Manual - Page 74

How Does the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System Work? The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System is designed to activate when the vehicle is in a collision similar to hitting a fixed barrier head on at 8-14 mph (13-23 km/h). The fact that the air bags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were not of the type sufficient to cause activation. If the vehicle is in a moderate or severe frontal collision, the system is activated and the air bags inflate rapidly. After the air bag inflates, it will quickly deflate. After the air bag deployment, you may notice a smoke-like, powdery residue or smell the burnt propellant. This is normal. The residue may consist of cornstarch or talcum powder (which is used to lubricate the air bag) or sodium compounds, such as sodium carbonates (e.g. baking soda) that result from the combustion process that inflates the air bag. Small amounts of sodium hydroxide may be present which may irritate the skin and eyes, but none of the residue is toxic. The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System will reduce, but not eliminate all injuries in an accident. WARNING Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not try to touch them after inflation. 71