2004 Jeep Wrangler Owner's Manual - Page 25

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25 • Also, the ACM turns on the "Airbag Warning 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. If the ACM detects a malfunction, the "Airbag Warning Light" will illuminate for a minimum of 12 seconds and will remain illuminated as long as the malfunction exists. WARNING! Ignoring the "Airbag Warning 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. • The Driver and Passenger Airbag/Inflator Units are located in the center of the steering wheel and in the instrument panel. When the ACM detects a collision requiring the airbags, it signals the inflator units. A large quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to inflate the airbags. The airbag covers separate and fold out of the way as the bags inflate to full size. The bags fully inflate in about 50 milliseconds. This is about half of the time it takes to blink your eyes. The airbags then quickly deflate while helping to restrain the driver and front passenger. The driver's front airbag gas is vented through the airbag material towards the instrument panel. The passenger's front airbag gas is vented through vent holes in the sides of the airbag. In this way the airbags do not interfere with your control of the vehicle. • The Knee Impact Bolsters help protect the knees and position the driver and front passenger's for the best interaction with the front airbag. 2