Inflator Module
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1992 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser, 1992 Chevrolet Caprice, and 1992 Buick Roadmaster. 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 and an optional or standard passenger-side air bag on Bonneville SSE and SSEi. 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.