Precautions when working with an airbag (VW Passat B3)

The driver's airbag is located in the steering wheel, and the passenger's airbag is located in the instrument cluster on the right. In the event of a severe frontal collision, the airbag deploys: a small explosive charge is ignited in the airbag by a signal from the control unit, and the gases formed during the explosion fill the air bag in a matter of milliseconds. This time is sufficient to cushion the body rushing forward during a collision. After a few seconds, the airbag collapses again, as the gases escape through the evacuation openings. The airbag for the passenger next to the driver is available as an optional extra.

The airbag components cannot be repaired and must always be replaced as a complete unit if faulty. Since the airbag assembly contains explosive material, it must be kept under lock and key or under proper supervision. The airbag assembly must be rendered unusable before disposal (workshop work).

Do not treat the cushion assembly with lubricants, cleaning agents or other similar products.

The pillow assembly must not be exposed to temperatures above 100°C, even for a short time.

The airbag assembly can only be removed with the battery ground (-) wire disconnected and the ignition off (ignition key in position "0").

[The article is published on this resource: VWMANUAL]