Is the airbag scrapped after deployment?
2 Answers
When an airbag deploys, it is indeed rendered unusable. During a collision while the vehicle is in motion, the airbag sensor first receives the impact signal. Once the impact reaches the specified intensity, the sensor activates and sends a signal to the electronic control unit. Upon receiving the signal, the electronic control unit compares it with its pre-stored data. If the conditions for airbag deployment are met, the drive circuit sends an activation signal to the gas generator in the airbag module. The gas generator then ignites the inflator material, producing a large volume of gas. This gas is filtered and cooled before entering the airbag, causing it to rapidly inflate through the cushion cover in a fraction of a second. The airbag forms an elastic cushion in front of the driver or passenger, then promptly deflates and contracts to absorb the impact energy, effectively protecting the head and chest from injury or reducing the severity of injuries.
The airbag deploying definitely doesn't mean the car is totaled. The airbag itself is a one-time safety device that can't be reused after deployment, just like an exploded firecracker - the entire module needs replacement, possibly including sensors and control units. The repair process is quite professional: first diagnose trouble codes at the repair shop, remove the old airbag, install new hardware, then reprogram the system to ensure proper triggering in future accidents. The cost isn't cheap - several thousand for compact cars, potentially over ten thousand for luxury vehicles. But the key point is the car itself remains drivable, with unaffected engine and transmission. If insurance covers it, file a claim promptly to avoid safety risks from delays. I've seen many owners mistakenly think airbag deployment means the car is junked, when in fact post-repair performance returns to normal. The only downside is accident records might affect resale value, but this doesn't qualify as being totaled.
