Description And Operation: Description
The Knee AirBag (KAB) (1) is concealed behind the injection molded, thermoplastic steering column opening cover. The KAB is located below the steering column on the driver side of the vehicle. It is secured by four screws to the lower instrument panel support structure.
Concealed within the stamped metal KAB housing beneath the steering column opening cover are the folded KAB cushion, the inflator (4) and the retainers (2) that secure the inflator to the housing. A molded plastic protective cover (3) is secured over the folded airbag cushion by several hook formations stamped into the airbag housing that are engaged through window openings in tabs integral to the outer perimeter of the cover, locking the cover securely into place over the KAB housing. A mounting flange (5) with two mounting holes extends from each end of the housing to secure the KAB to the instrument panel support structure.
The KAB cannot be repaired, and must be replaced if deployed, ineffective, or in any way damaged. Following a KAB deployment, the KAB and the steering column opening cover must be replaced.