2008 Volvo S40 Owner's Manual - Page 21

The SIPS airbag system is designed to help increase occupant protection in the event of certain side impact collisions. The SIPS airbags are designed to deploy only during certain side-impact collisions, depending on the crash severity, angle, speed and point of impact. NOTE SIPS airbag deployment (one airbag) occurs only on the side of the vehicle affected by the impact. The airbags are not designed to deploy in all side impact situations. Components in the SIPS airbag system This SIPS airbag system consists of gas generators and side airbag modules built into the outboard sides of both front seat backrests. WARNING The SIPS airbag system is a supplement to the structural Side Impact Protection System and the three-point seat belt system. It is not designed to deploy during collisions from the front or rear of the car or in rollover situations. The use of seat covers on the front seats may impede SIPS airbag deployment. No objects, accessory equipment or stickers may be placed on, attached to or installed near the SIPS airbag system or in the area affected by SIPS airbag deployment. Never try to open or repair any components of the SIPS airbag system. This should be done only by a trained and qualified Volvo service technician. In order for the SIPS airbag to provide its best protection, both front seat occupants should sit in an upright position with the seat belt properly fastened. Failure to follow these instructions can result in injury to the occupants of the vehicle in the event of an accident. 25 01 Safety Volvo Inflatable Curtain (VIC) The Volvo Inflatable Curtain system