The airbag system includes airbag units with gas generators, a control unit with an integrated crash sensor and a warning light in the instrument cluster.
The pillow block, mounted in the center of the steering wheel, is stamped with the inscription «AIRBAG». If a passenger airbag is installed, this is stamped on the airbag unit located on the dash in front of the passenger.
When the ignition is switched on, the control unit performs a check that lasts about 3 seconds, during which the warning lamp in the instrument cluster comes on. At the end of the test, the control lamp should go out. If the lamp does not light up, lights up later, or lights up when the vehicle is moving, then there is a malfunction in the system. In this case, you must immediately contact the car service specialists.
The system is triggered by a front impact of a certain force, depending on the direction of impact. In a matter of milliseconds, the airbag inflates to form a safety bubble between the driver and steering wheel, as well as between the passenger (if installed) and instrument panel. This greatly reduces the risk of injury to the driver and passenger. The pillow deflates almost instantly. The control unit causes the mechanisms of the pretensioners to work simultaneously with the operation of the airbags (see section «Body»).
To prevent injury in the event of an unauthorized deployment of the airbag, disconnect the battery and wait at least 5 minutes before removing the airbag module. This will allow the control unit capacitors to discharge. After finishing work, make sure that there is no one in the cabin when connecting the battery, open the door and turn on the ignition from outside the car.
Do not allow solvents or cleaning fluids to come into contact with the airbag module. It can only be cleaned with a soft cloth.
The airbag module is impact sensitive. Replace a module that has been dropped or hit.
Before working near system components or the steering wheel, to prevent injury from unauthorized operation of the system, remove the airbag module as described below.
Do not attempt to check the system with any instruments other than those specially provided for this purpose by Renault. The use of conventional testers or ohmmeters may trip the system.
Before starting welding, disconnect the wiring connector from the system control unit. Do not expose the removed module to heat. Keep it away from people.
When replacing the airbag module, the ECM must also be replaced.