2004 Lexus SC 430 Owners Manual - Page 142

OCCUPANT RESTRAINT SYSTEMS When the airbags inflate, they produce a fairly loud noise and release some smoke and residue along with non-toxic gas. This does not indicate a fire. This smoke may remain inside the vehicle for some time, and may cause some minor irritation to the eyes, skin or breathing. Be sure to wash off any residue as soon as possible to prevent any potential skin irritation with soap and water. If you can safely exit from the vehicle, you should do so immediately. Deployment of the airbags happens in a fraction of a second, so the airbags must inflate with considerable force. While the system is designed to reduce serious injuries, it may also cause minor burns or abrasions and swelling. Front seats may be hot for several minutes, but the airbags themselves will not be hot. The airbags are designed to inflate only once. 16sa79a " 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Side airbag modules (airbag and inflator) Side airbag sensors SRS warning light Airbag sensor assembly Door side airbag sensors Occupant detection sensor Seat belt buckle switch The SRS side airbag system consists mainly of the above components, and their locations are shown in the illustration. The SRS side airbag system is controlled by the airbag sensor assembly. The airbag sensor assembly consists of a safing sensor and airbag sensors. In a severe side impact, the side airbag sensor triggers the side airbag inflators. At this time a chemical reaction in the inflators very quickly fills the airbags with non-toxic gas to help restrain the lateral motion of the occupants. CAUTION The SRS side airbags inflate with considerable force. To reduce the possibility of death or serious injury when they inflate, the driver and front passenger must: D Wear their seat belts properly. D Remain properly seated with their backs upright and against the seats at all times. D Always make sure that the belt webbing is not twisted and runs freely through the guide when using it. D Always adjust the seat belt webbing snugly, adjust the seat belt guide and seat position to assure proper fit and comfort of your seat belt. 122