Volvo 2005 S40 Manual page 12

Front airbags
Your Volvo is equipped with a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), which consists of front airbags that enhance the
three-point seat belt system. The Volvo SRS system includes gas generators (1) surrounded by the airbags (2) and front
seat belt tensioners for both of the front seats. To deploy the system, the sensor (3) activates the gas generators causing
the airbags to be inflated with nitrogen gas.
As the movement of the seats' occupants compresses the airbags, some of the gas is expelled at a controlled rate to
provide better cushioning. Both seat belt tensioners also deploy, minimizing seat belt slack. The entire process,
including inflation and deflation of the airbags, takes approximately one fifth of a second.
The system is designed to supplement the protection provided by the three-point seat belt system. The outboard rear
seat belts are also equipped with tensioners. The SRS system is indicated by the "SRS" embossed on the steering wheel
pad and above the glove compartment, and by decals on both sun visors and on the front and far right side of the dash.
The airbags are folded and located in the steering wheel hub and above the glove compartment.
Seat belts - the heart of the Volvo safety system
The heart of the Volvo safety system is the three-point seat belt (a Volvo invention)! In order for the SRS system to
provide the protection intended, seat belts must be worn at all times by everyone in the vehicle. The SRS system is a
supplement to the seat belts.
pg. 18 Front airbags (Supplemental Restraint System - SRS)
WARNING!
As its name implies, SRS is designed to be a SUPPLEMENT to - not a replacement for - the three-point belt system.
For maximum protection, wear seat belts at all times. Be aware that no system can prevent all possible injuries that
may occur in an accident.
Never drive an SRS-equipped vehicle with your hands on the steering wheel pad/ airbag housing.
SRS is designed to help prevent serious injury. Deployment occurs very quickly and with considerable able force.
During normal deployment and depending on variables such as seating position, one may experience abrasions,
Components in the SRS system
Location of the passenger's side front airbag