1997 Mercury Mystique Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 100

smell the burnt propellant. This is normal. The residue may consist of cornstarch or talcum powder (which is used to lubricate the air bag) or sodium compounds, such as sodium carbonates (e.g. baking soda) that result from the combustion process that inflates the air bag. Small amounts of sodium hydroxide may be present which may irritate the skin and eyes, but none of the residue is toxic. The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System will reduce, but not eliminate all injuries in an accident. RWARNING Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not try to touch them after inflation. RWARNING The air bag will inflate only once. The system is designed to function on a one-time-only basis. If the air bag is inflated, THE AIR BAG WILL NOT FUNCTION AGAIN AND MUST BE REPLACED IMMEDIATELY. If the air bag is not replaced, this will increase the risk of injury in a subsequent collision. The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System consists of: s driver and passenger air bag modules (which include the inflators and air bags), s one or more impact and safing sensors, s a system diagnostic module, s a readiness light and tone, s and the electrical wiring which connects the components. The diagnostic module monitors its own circuits, the air bag electrical system, the air bag readiness light, the air bag power and the air bag inflators. 100