The airbag system consists of working units (the actual pillow with a gas generator), control unit (with built-in directional overload sensor) and a control lamp built into the instrument panel. The front airbags are triggered only in the event of a frontal impact that causes overloads with a frontal force not lower than the value stored in the control unit memory. The airbags are filled in thousandths of a second, which guarantees the maximum degree of protection for the driver and front passenger.
On models equipped with side airbags, the latter are triggered by strong side impacts. The minimum overload value is also stored in the control unit memory. The presence of side airbags further increases the level of vehicle safety.
Each time the ignition is turned on, the control unit performs a short diagnostic of the system components. The duration of the test is usually about four seconds, and during this entire time the corresponding indicator lamp lights up on the instrument panel. Upon completion of the self-diagnosis cycle, if no faults are detected in the system, the indicator lamp should turn off. Otherwise (i.e. if the lamp does not turn on or does not go out after 4 seconds), and also if the lamp turns on while driving, there is a malfunction in the system and the car should be taken to a service station as soon as possible for a full diagnosis and troubleshooting (first, make sure that the indicator lamp has not simply burned out).
Note: If the indicator lamp continues to flash for another 12 seconds after 4 seconds, the passenger side airbag is deactivated. To restore the airbag to working condition, special electronic equipment is required, which can only be found at specialized service stations.
Caution! Any maintenance work on the airbag system components may only be performed after at least one minute has passed since the negative battery cable has been disconnected. After completing the work, make sure that no one is in the vehicle before reconnecting the battery, then turn on the ignition through the open driver's door.
Do not allow airbags to heat up to over 100°C. Airbags removed from the vehicle should be stored away from heat sources.
Do not allow any solvents to come into contact with the airbag components. Only clean exposed surfaces with a cloth slightly dampened with water.
Remember that airbag control units are sensitive to impact loads. If the unit is accidentally dropped and hits a hard surface, it should be replaced.
Before using electric arc welding on a vehicle, be sure to disconnect the electrical wiring from the airbag control unit.
[The original article can be found on the resource SKODABOOK.RU]
When using special devices for transporting young children in the front seat, the passenger airbag must be deactivated (seek help from specialists).