Lexus SC 430 2004 Manual page 141

OCCUPANT RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
16st04
" 1 Side airbag modules (airbag and inflator)
2 Side airbag sensors
3 SRS warning light
4 Airbag sensor assembly
5 Door side airbag sensors
6 Occupant detection sensor
7 Seat belt buckle switch
The SRS side airbag system consists mainly of the above
components, and their locations are shown in the illustration.
The SRS side airbag system is controlled by the airbag sensor
assembly. The airbag sensor assembly consists of a safing
sensor and airbag sensors.
In a severe side impact, the side airbag sensor triggers the side
airbag inflators. At this time a chemical reaction in the inflators
very quickly fills the airbags with non-toxic gas to help restrain
the lateral motion of the occupants.
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When the airbags inflate, they produce a loud noise and
release some smoke and residue along with non-toxic gas.
This does not indicate a fire. This smoke may remain inside
the vehicle for some time, and may cause some minor irritation
to the eyes, skin or breathing. Be sure to wash off any residue
as soon as possible to prevent any potential skin irritation with
soap and water. If you can safely exit from the vehicle, you
should do so immediately.
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.
Front seats may be hot for several minutes, but the airbags
themselves will not be hot. The airbags are designed to inflate
only once.
CAUTION
The SRS side airbags inflate with considerable force. To
reduce the possibility of death or serious injury when
they inflate, the driver and front passenger must:
D Wear their seat belts properly.
D Remain properly seated with their backs upright and
against the seats at all times.
D Always make sure that the belt webbing is not twisted
and runs freely through the guide when using it.
D Always adjust the seat belt webbing snugly, adjust
the seat belt guide and seat position to assure proper
fit and comfort of your seat belt.