Ford Escape: How does the side airbag system work?
The design and development of the side airbag system included recommended testing procedures that were developed by a group of automotive safety experts known as the Side Airbag Technical Working Group. These recommended testing procedures help reduce the risk of injuries related to the deployment of side airbags.
The side airbag system consists of the following:
• An inflatable bag (airbag) with a
gas generator concealed behind
the outboard bolster of the driver
and front passenger seatbacks.
• A special seat cover designed to
allow airbag deployment.
• The same warning light, electronic control and diagnostic unit as used
for the front airbags.
• Two crash sensors located on the lower portion of the b-pillar (one on
each side of the vehicle).
Side airbags, in combination with safety belts, can help reduce the risk of severe injuries in the event of a significant side impact collision.
The side airbags are fitted on the outboard side of the seatbacks of the front seats. In certain lateral collisions, the airbag on the side affected by the collision will be inflated. The airbag was designed to inflate between the door panel and occupant to further enhance the protection provided occupants in side impact collisions.
The airbag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains lateral deceleration sufficient to cause the sensors to close an electrical circuit that initiates airbag inflation.
The fact that the airbags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were not of the type sufficient to cause activation. Side airbags are designed to inflate in side-impact collisions, not roll-over, rear-impact, frontal or near-frontal collisions, unless the collision causes sufficient lateral deceleration.
WARNING: Several airbag system components get hot after
inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.
WARNING: If the side
airbag has deployed, the
airbag will not function again.
The side airbag system (including the seat) must be inspected and serviced by an authorized dealer. If the airbag is not replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.
Seat-mounted side airbag system
WARNING: Do not place objects or mount equipment on or
near the airbag cover on the side of the seatbacks of the front
seats or in front seat areas that may come into contact with a
deploying airb ...
Determining if the system is operational
The SRS uses a readiness light in the instrument cluster or a tone to
indicate the condition of the system. Refer to Warning lights and
chimes in the Instrument Cluster chapter. Routine maintenance ...
See also:
Climate Control Sensors
Sunlight and Temperature Sensors
The climate control systemhas two
sensors: a sunlight sensor on top of
the dashboard, and a temperature
and humidity sensor next to the
steering column. D ...
MODE button
Models without Hands-free system
Models with Hands-free system
The “MODE” button is used to select the
desired audio mode. Each time it is
pressed, the mode changes to the next
one in ...
Electric Power Steering (2.4L L4 Engine)
If the engine stalls while driving, the power steering assist system will continue
to operate until you are able to stop the vehicle.
If power steering assist is lost due to a system malfunction, t ...