How Does The Side Air Bag System Work? - Ford 2001 Mercury Cougar Owner's Manual

How does the side air bag
system work? (if equipped)
Side air bags, in combination with
seat belts, can help reduce the risk
of severe injuries in the event of a
significant side impact collision.
The side air bags are fitted on the
outboard side of the seatbacks of
the front seats. In certain lateral
collisions, the air bag on the side
affected by the collision will be
inflated, even if the respective seat
is not occupied. The air bag was
designed to inflate between the
door panel and occupant to further
enhance the protection provided
occupants in side impact collisions.
The side air bags are not activated
upon minor lateral, front or rear
impact collisions.
Several air bag system
components get hot after
inflation. Do not touch them after
inflation.
Seating and safety restraints