Your Vehicle's Safety System

What to Expect After the Airbag Inflates

~1min read

After a front or side air bag deploys, it deflates very quickly. Air bag inflation will not prevent the driver from seeing through the windshield or from being able to steer. Curtain air bags may remain partially inflated for some time after deployment.

WARNING

After an air bag deploys, take the following precautions:

  • Open your windows and doors as soon as possible after deployment to reduce prolonged exposure to smoke and powder released by the airbag inflation.
  • Do not touch the air bag module internal components immediately after the air bag has inflated. Parts that contact the air bag may be very hot.
  • Always wash exposed skin areas thoroughly with cold water and mild soap.
  • Always have an authorized HYUNDAI dealer replace the airbag immediately after deployment. Airbags are designed for one-time use only.

Noise and Smoke from Air Bag Inflation

When the airbags deploy, they make a loud noise and may produce smoke and powder in the air inside the vehicle. This is normal and is the result of ignition of the airbag inflator. After the airbag deploys, you may feel significant discomfort in breathing due to contact with the chest from the seat belt and airbag, as well as from breathing the smoke and powder. The powder may aggravate asthma in some people. If you experience breathing problems after airbag deployment, seek medical attention immediately.

Although the smoke and powder are non-toxic, they may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, nose, throat, etc. In this case, wash and rinse with cold water immediately and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

Test yourself

A quick Hyundai Palisade quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.