What Makes Up An Airbag?

May 9, 2025

At Woody's Automotive in Wichita, KS, we believe it’s important for you to know how different systems in your car, truck, or SUV operate. Whether you want to know what to watch out for, or you’re just curious about how things work, we’re here to supply the answers.


Airbags are an element of your vehicle that you probably don’t think about too much since you don’t use them that often. However, they are a revolutionary and interesting component in all modern automobiles. They are simultaneously a testament to modern engineering, and actually quite simple.


There are only a few main components to an airbag. A sensor, an ignitor, a chemical compound, and the airbag itself. When the sensor is activated in a collision, it sends an electrical pulse to the ignitor, a heating element that ignites a compound, causing a rapid expansion of harmless gases inside the airbag, filling it almost instantly. That’s right, an airbag is really nothing more than a controlled explosion, detonated by an electronic signal. All of this happens within a fraction of a second, providing passengers in the car a strong cushion between them and less forgiving parts of the car.


Airbags rarely fail. However, if there’s an airbag warning light illuminated on your dashboard, it’s important to figure out why as soon as possible. The light indicates that something in the system has malfunctioned, and it’s possible your airbags won’t be there for you if you need them.



If you’re having complications with your airbags, and for all your other repair or maintenance needs, our team of expert mechanics has you covered. For the best auto service shop in Wichita, KS, call or stop by Woody's Automotive today.

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