Driver-Side Air Bag Module
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1994 Mercury Tracer and 1994 Ford Escort. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Air bag module is mounted in center of steering wheel, encased in steering wheel trim cover. When impact sensor(s) and safing sensor close, signaling an impact, the ignitor causes ignition of inflator gas generant. This ignition reaction combusts sodium azide/copper oxide gas generant in the inflator, producing nitrogen gas, which inflates air bag.
When air bag is activated, tear seams molded into steering wheel trim cover separate, allowing inflation of the air bag assembly. Air bag module is only serviced as a complete assembly.