2002 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 18

tion, cautions and warnings in this manual still apply and must be followed. The supplemental air bag system is designed to inflate in higher severity frontal collisions, although it may inflate if the forces in another type of collision are similar to those of a higher severity frontal impact. It may not inflate in certain frontal collisions. Vehicle damage (or lack of it) is not always an indication of proper supplemental air bag system operation. The supplemental air bag system has dual stage inflators for both the driver and passenger air bags. The system monitors information from the crash zone sensor, the diagnosis sensor unit and seat belt buckle sensors that detect if the seat belts are fastened. Inflator operation is based on the severity of a collision and whether the seat belts are being used. When the supplemental air bag inflates, a fairly loud noise may be heard, followed by the release of smoke. This smoke is not harmful and does not indicate a fire. Care should be taken not to intentionally inhale it, as it may cause irritation and choking. Those with a history of a breathing condition should get fresh air promptly. WRS0119 Supplemental air bag system The driver supplemental air bag is located in the center of the steering wheel. The passenger supplemental air bag is located in the top right section of the instrument panel. These systems are designed to meet optional certification requirements under U.S. regulations. They are also permitted in Canada. The optional certification allows air bags to be designed to inflate somewhat less forcefully than previously. However, all of the informa- Seats, restraints and supplemental air bag systems 1-11