2000 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 85

Seat, seat belt and SRS airbag HS2001BB The SRS airbag can function only when the ignition switch is in the "ON" position. If the front sub sensors inside the both front fenders and the impact sensors in the airbag control module detect a certain predetermined amount of force during a frontal collision, the control module sends signals to the airbag modules instructing them to inflate the SRS airbags. Then both airbag modules produce gas, which instantly inflates driver's and passenger's SRS airbags. After the deployment, the SRS airbags immediately start to deflate so that the driver's vision is not obstructed. The time required from detecting impact to the deflating SRS airbag after deployment is shorter than the blink of eye. The front passenger's SRS airbag deploys together with driver's SRS airbag even when no one occupies the front passenger's seat. Although it is highly unlikely that the SRS airbag would activate in a non-accident situation, should it occur, the SRS airbag will deflate quickly, not obscuring vision and will not interfere with the driver's ability to maintain control of the vehicle. When the SRS airbag deploys, a sudden, fairly loud inflation noise will be heard and some smoke will be released. These occurrences are - CONTINUED - 2-33