Genuine Lexus ES300 Air Bag

Lexus ES300 Air Bag Parts Questions & Answers

• Air Bag Assy, Instrument Panel Passenger
  73970-33063-C0
  Q: What is the role and composition of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) or airbag in Lexus ES300?

  A: All models are equipped with a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), commonly known as an airbag, designed to provide protection for the driver and front-seat passenger in head-on or frontal collisions. The system comprises an airbag module located in the center of the steering wheel and the right side of the instrument panel, along with a sensing/diagnostic module positioned in the center of the vehicle ahead of the floor console. The driver's side airbag module contains an inflator unit with an airbag housed within the steering wheel. An electrical signal from the system is transmitted through a coil assembly to the module, which then ignites the sodium azide/copper oxide powder in the inflator, rapidly inflating the airbag upon collision. Similarly, the passenger side airbag module, larger than the steering wheel-mounted unit, is located above the glove compartment. The side-impact airbag module offers extra protection on some models and is situated in the seat backs. The sensing and diagnostic module supplies current to the airbag system during collisions, checking its status on each vehicle start-up. Precautions include disarming the system before working near its components, ensuring safe handling and storage of airbag modules, and refraining from using electrical welding equipment on a vehicle equipped with airbags. Measurement of SRS component resistance and disposal of live airbag modules should also be avoided.