Inflator Module
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 10 other vehicles, including the 1991 Oldsmobile Toronado, 1991 Cadillac Seville, 1991 Cadillac Eldorado, 1991 Buick Riviera, and 1991 Buick Reatta. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
When the vehicle is in an accident of sufficient force to simultaneously close the arming sensor and at least one discriminating sensor, nitrogen gas inflates the air bag packed inside the steering wheel hub. The air bag inflates and deploys in less than 1/20 of a second. As the driver contacts the air bag, the gas is vented and deflation occurs.