Inflator Module
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1991 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser, 1991 Chevrolet Caprice, and 1991 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. 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.