Maserati Quattroporte Automatic 2009 Owner's Manual page 38

M139_UM_usa1.book Page 38 Monday, September 1, 2008 2:39 PM
Do not tamper or damage the
airbag modules. If, for any
reason, an airbag cover gets
damaged, have the airbag module
immediately checked by an
Authorized Maserati Dealer.
Activation of a damaged
2
module could cause serious or
fatal injuries. Please note that
your vehicle is not capable of
automatically detecting damages to
the airbag cover.
38
Front and side airbags
Operation and replacement
The airbags are controlled by an ECU
that is designed to activate them in the
case of a head-on collision of sufficient
force.
In the event of a collision with an
impact force that causes deceleration
exceeding the value set for the
internal sensor, the ECU will transmit a
signal to deploy the airbags. The
airbags will begin to inflate, breaking
the cover along the breakage line and
will inflate completely in a few
milliseconds. Once inflated, they will
serve as a protection between the
driver and/or passenger and the
structures that could cause injury.
The airbags deflate immediately
afterwards.
The driver and passenger are
both advised not to travel
handling objects (e.g.,
beverage cans or bottles, pipes, etc,)
that could cause injury in the event of
airbag activation.
WARNING: When the system starts
operating, gases are released in the
form of fumes, together with the gas
used for inflating the airbags.
These gases are not harmful.
Drive with your hands always
on the rim of the steering
wheel so that, in the case of
activation, the airbag can inflate
without obstruction. Placing hands or
arms inside the rim increases the risk
of arm/hand injuries in the event of a
crash.
Always keep the seat backrest
in the upright position and sit
with your back properly
resting against it.
Do not modify the system components
or wiring under any circumstances.
With the ignition key inserted
and in position II, although
the engine is off, the airbags
can still be activated when the vehicle
is stationary if it is hit by a moving
vehicle.
Thus, even with the vehicle stationary,
do not put children in the front seat. In
addition, remember that if the ignition
key is in position 0, none of the safety
devices (airbags or pretensioner) are
activated in the event of a collision.
Failure of the airbags to inflate in
these circumstances is not indicative of
system malfunction.