Airbags in Cars: Working, Types and Safety Guide

Posted on: Jul 2, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Airbags in Cars: Working, Types and Safety Guide

Q: How many airbags are in a car?

It varies by model. Basic cars usually have two front airbags, while premium cars may have up to eight or more.

Q: Are airbag replacements covered by insurance?

Yes. A valid car insurance policy typically covers airbag replacement costs as part of accident repairs.

Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features, and airbags are among the most important. While many car buyers look at features such as mileage and comfort, safety remains a crucial factor. Airbags, combined with seatbelts, significantly reduce the chances of serious injuries during collisions. However, what exactly are airbags, and how do they work? Let’s explore.

What is an Airbag?

An airbag is a vehicle safety device designed to protect passengers during a crash. It’s a soft, inflatable cushion made from nylon fabric that quickly fills with gas during an accident. The main purpose of airbags in car systems is to reduce the risk of severe injuries by absorbing the force of impact.

Unlike seatbelts that keep you in place, airbags are designed to absorb the shock of impact. They work as a second layer of protection, complementing seatbelts and ensuring that the body does not make direct contact with hard surfaces like the dashboard or steering wheel.

How do Airbags Work?

Airbags function through a system of sensors, an inflator and a control unit. Here’s how they work step by step:

• Sensors detect impact

The car’s system monitors sudden deceleration or collision.

• Signal triggers inflator

When a crash is detected, an electrical signal activates the inflator.

• Airbag inflates instantly

Gas (usually nitrogen or argon) fills the airbag within milliseconds.

• Airbag cushions impact

It prevents direct contact with the dashboard, steering wheel or windows.

The entire process takes less than 40 milliseconds—faster than the blink of an eye, ensuring maximum safety.

How Do Airbags Open in Cars?

The opening of airbags is one of the most precise safety mechanisms in the automotive industry. Here’s what happens:

• Crash sensors placed around the car (front, side or rear) detect the severity of impact.

• A microprocessor analyses the data to confirm whether deployment is necessary.

• Once confirmed, a chemical reaction or small explosion inside the inflator produces gas.

• The airbag tears open from its storage compartment and inflates fully.

• After absorbing impact, it deflates through small vents, preventing suffocation.

This rapid inflation and deflation sequence is what makes airbags both effective and safe.

Types of Car Airbags and What They Protect

Modern cars often come with a wide range of airbags to ensure maximum passenger protection. Common types include:

Frontal Airbags

Protect the driver and front passenger in head-on collisions.

Side Airbags

Shield the chest and abdomen during side impacts.

Curtain Airbags

Drop down from the roof to protect the head in side crashes.

Knee Airbags

Prevent knees and legs from hitting the dashboard.

Rear Seat Airbags

Offer protection for passengers seated at the back.

Centre Airbags

Positioned between the driver and passenger to reduce injury risk during side collisions.

Advantages of Airbags

Airbags provide numerous safety benefits, making them a standard in modern vehicles. Some advantages include:

• Reduced risk of fatal injuries during severe crashes.

• Protection of critical body areas like the head, chest and knees.

• Working alongside seatbelts for enhanced safety.

• Boosting driver and passenger confidence when travelling.

• Meeting global safety standards, which can also affect resale value.

Disadvantage of Airbags in Cars

While they are life-saving devices, airbags have some limitations:

• Minor injuries such as burns, bruises or abrasions can occur upon deployment.

• Ineffective if seatbelts are not worn.

• Replacement after deployment can be expensive.

• May not deploy in certain low-speed accidents.

• In rare cases, faulty sensors can trigger unnecessary deployment.

How Much Does an Airbag Cost?

Airbag costs vary widely depending on the make, model and number of airbags in the vehicle:

• Replacement cost ranges between ₹20,000 and ₹1,00,000 per airbag.

• Cars equipped with multiple airbags (like curtain or rear airbags) can lead to higher repair expenses.

• Labour costs at authorised service centres may add to the overall bill.

This is where having a comprehensive Car Insurance plan becomes essential. Insurance helps cover the cost of repairs, including airbag replacements, reducing your financial burden after accidents.

Airbags and Safety Regulations in India

The Indian government has mandated driver airbags for all cars sold since 2019 and dual front airbags have been compulsory since 2022. Regulations ensure that even entry-level cars are equipped with basic airbag safety features. Additional airbags such as curtain and side airbags are usually found in premium or higher-end variants.

Conclusion

Airbags in cars are life-saving devices that work alongside seatbelts to enhance passenger safety. They deploy within milliseconds to cushion the blow during collisions, reducing the risk of serious injuries. However, they also come with costs and certain limitations. To ensure complete protection, always wear your seatbelt, maintain your car’s safety systems, and keep your insurance policy updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are airbags?

Airbags are inflatable safety cushions that deploy in milliseconds during a crash to protect passengers from injuries.

2. How many airbags are in a car?

It varies by model. Basic cars usually have two (front airbags), while premium cars may have up to eight or more.

3. Do airbags work without seatbelts?

They are less effective without seatbelts. Both systems are designed to work together.

4. Can airbags be reused after deployment?

No. Once deployed, airbags must be replaced.

5. Are airbag replacements covered by insurance?

Yes. A valid Car Insurance policy typically covers airbag replacement costs as part of accident repairs.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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