Lexus RX300 2001 Owner's Manual page 127

COMFORT ADJUSTMENT
16R026c
" 1 Side airbag modules (airbag and inflator)
2 Airbag module for front passenger
(airbag and inflator)
3 Side airbag sensors
4 Airbag sensor assembly
5 Airbag module for driver (airbag and inflator)
6 SRS warning light
7 Front airbag sensors
The SRS airbag system consists mainly of the above
components, and their locations are shown in the illustration.
The airbag sensor assembly consists of a safing sensor and
airbag sensor.
In a severe frontal impact, the sensors detect deceleration and
the system triggers the front airbag inflators. In a severe side
impact, the side airbag sensor triggers the side airbag inflator.
Then a chemical reaction in the inflators quickly fills the airbags
with non–toxic gas to help restrain the forward or lateral motion
of the occupants.
108
When the SRS airbag operates, it produces a fairly loud noise
and release some smoke and residue along with non–toxic
gas. This does not indicate a fire. This gas is normally
harmless; however, for those who have delicate skin, it may
cause a minor skin irritation. Be sure to wash off any residue
as soon as possible to prevent any potential skin irritation.
Deployment of the airbags happens in a fraction of a second,
so the airbags must inflate with considerable force. While the
system is designed to reduce serious injuries, it may also
cause minor burns or abrasions and swelling.
Parts of the airbag module (steering wheel hub, dashboard,
front seats) may be hot for several minutes, but the airbags
themselves will not be hot. The airbags are designed to inflate
only once.
A crash severe enough to inflate the driver and front passenger
airbags may break the windshield as the vehicle buckles. In
vehicles with a front passenger airbag, the windshield may
also be damaged by absorbing some of the force of the
inflating airbag.
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U)