Function of curtain airbags

When fully inflated, the airbags reduce the risk of head and neck injuries in side collisions.

Fig. 186 Curtain airbags deployed

In certain defined side collisions, the curtain airbag deploys on the side affected by the impact together with the side airbag => Fig. 186.

When the system deploys, the airbag fills with propellant gas and covers the side windows and the door pillars.

The system protects both front passengers and rear seat passengers on the side affected by the impact. The deployed curtain airbag cushions the impact when the head strikes components of the passenger compartment or objects outside the vehicle. Since the head is loaded less and head movements are less violent, the load on the neck is also reduced. In an oblique collision, the deployed curtain airbag provides additional protection by covering the front door pillar.

Certain accidents may cause the front, side and curtain airbags to deploy at the same time.

The airbags inflate within fractions of a second, at very high speed, to provide additional protection in an accident. A fine dust is released when the airbag deploys. This is completely normal and should not be mistaken for a fire in the vehicle.