Toyota bZ4X Owner's Manual: SRS Airbags

The SRS airbags in your Toyota bZ4X are engineered to deploy within milliseconds when the vehicle encounters severe impact situations that could cause serious harm. These advanced airbags are designed to inflate rapidly during high-force collisions or abrupt deceleration events, creating a cushioning barrier that helps absorb and distribute crash energy. By working together with the seat belts, they form a comprehensive restraint system that significantly reduces the risk of fatal injuries or serious harm. Regular maintenance and adherence to Toyota’s safety guidelines ensure that these critical components are always ready to protect you on every journey.

SRS airbag system

Location of the SRS airbags

1. SRS driver airbag/front passenger airbag

Help reduce impact to the head and chest of the driver and front passenger

2. SRS knee airbags

Help reduce impact to the driver and front passenger

3. SRS side airbags

Help reduce impact to the chest of the occupants of the front seats

4. SRS curtain shield airbags

• Help reduce impact to the heads of the occupants of the front and rear outer seats
• Can help prevent the occupants from being thrown from the vehicle in the event of a vehicle rollover

Advanced Airbag System in Your Toyota bZ4X

Your Toyota bZ4X is equipped with ADVANCED AIRBAGS designed to meet US motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS208). The airbag sensor assembly (ECU) governs airbag deployment by analyzing real-time data from various sensors, ensuring a precise response based on crash severity and occupant positioning.

Upon detection of a significant impact, the airbag inflators activate a controlled chemical reaction, rapidly filling the airbags with a non-toxic gas. This immediate expansion helps restrain occupant motion, reducing the force of collision impact and minimizing the risk of serious injury.

By integrating cutting-edge sensor technology and rapid inflation mechanics, the airbag system in your Toyota bZ4X enhances overall safety, working seamlessly with seat belts to provide maximum protection in critical driving situations.

If the SRS Airbags Deploy (Inflate) in Your Toyota bZ4X

In the event of a significant impact, the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags in your Toyota bZ4X deploy rapidly to provide additional protection to occupants. While airbags significantly reduce injury risk, the following effects may be observed upon deployment:

• Physical Effects: Occupants may experience slight abrasions, burns, or bruising due to the high-speed deployment of the airbags, which are inflated using hot gases.
• Noise and Residue: A loud noise and white powder may be emitted during airbag inflation. This powder is a result of the inflation chemical reaction and is non-toxic but may cause minor irritation.
• Heat Retention: Parts of the airbag module, such as the steering wheel hub, airbag cover, and inflator, may remain hot for several minutes. Caution should be exercised when touching these areas immediately after deployment.
• Possible Windshield Damage: In severe collisions, the windshield may crack due to the force of the airbags and vehicle impact.
• Automatic System Response: Various systems in the Toyota bZ4X are designed to respond immediately after airbag deployment to enhance occupant safety:
• The EV system will automatically shut down.
• All doors will be unlocked for easy exit or emergency access.
• The braking system and stop lights will activate automatically.
• Interior lighting will turn on to improve visibility within the vehicle.
• Emergency flashers will activate to signal distress to other drivers.
• Safety Connect Emergency Response: For Safety Connect subscribers, an automated emergency call will be placed to the response center when certain conditions occur:
• Deployment of an SRS airbag.
• Activation of a seat belt pretensioner.
• A severe rear-end collision.

During the emergency call, an agent will attempt to communicate with occupants to assess the situation and provide necessary assistance. If communication is not possible, the call is treated as an emergency, and the required services are dispatched immediately.

By understanding these responses, drivers and passengers can be better prepared for post-collision procedures in their Toyota bZ4X. Regular maintenance and system checks ensure that all safety features remain operational and ready to protect occupants when needed.

SRS Airbag Deployment in a Frontal Impact

The SRS airbag system in your Toyota bZ4X is designed to deploy under specific collision conditions to provide maximum protection to the occupants. When the impact force exceeds a predefined threshold-typically equivalent to a 12 - 18 mph (20 - 30 km/h) frontal collision against a rigid, non-deforming barrier-the airbags activate to minimize injury.

Which Airbags Deploy in a Frontal Collision?

• SRS front airbags-Providing primary protection for the driver and front passenger.
• SRS knee airbags-Designed to help stabilize lower body movement and reduce potential leg injuries.

Factors Affecting Airbag Deployment

Certain types of collisions may require a higher level of force for the airbags to deploy. These include:

• Collisions with movable or deformable objects-If the impact occurs with an object that moves, such as a parked vehicle or sign pole, the force absorbed by that object reduces the required activation level.
• Underride collisions-Where the front of the Toyota bZ4X slides underneath a taller object, such as the bed of a truck.

Partial Deployment Based on Collision Type

The advanced safety system ensures that only the necessary airbags activate based on the nature of the crash:

• Seat belt pretensioners may engage without full airbag deployment.
• SRS knee airbags may activate independently, depending on the angle of impact.

Passenger Seat Considerations

• The front passenger airbag will not deploy if the seat is unoccupied.
• However, placing luggage or heavy objects on the front passenger seat could trigger the system, leading to unintended deployment.

Extreme Collision Scenarios

• In particularly severe frontal collisions, the SRS curtain shield airbags (left and right) may also deploy, providing additional head protection for occupants.

Toyota’s intelligent airbag system in the bZ4X is engineered to enhance occupant safety by deploying strategically in life-threatening situations while preventing unnecessary activation. Regular system checks and proper seating posture further ensure that the airbag system functions optimally.

SRS Airbag Deployment in a Side Impact

The advanced SRS airbag system in the Toyota bZ4X is designed to deploy in response to severe side impacts, ensuring occupant protection in critical situations. When the vehicle experiences an impact at a perpendicular angle from a 3300 lb. (1500 kg) vehicle traveling at approximately 12 - 18 mph (20 - 30 km/h), the airbags activate immediately.

Airbags deployed in a side collision:

• SRS side airbags – These provide direct protection by cushioning the impact forces that reach the torso.
• SRS curtain shield airbags – Designed to protect the head by covering the window area on the impacted side.

Additional deployment considerations:

• Regardless of which side is impacted, both left and right SRS curtain shield airbags deploy simultaneously to provide enhanced protection for all occupants.
• If the vehicle rolls over, both left and right curtain shield airbags will deploy to prevent head injuries from side window or roof impact.

SRS Airbag Deployment in an Underside Impact

In cases where the underside of the Toyota bZ4X collides with a hard object-such as an elevated curb or a large debris obstruction-specific airbags may deploy to mitigate injuries caused by unexpected jolts or vehicle destabilization.

Airbags deployed in an underside impact:

• SRS front airbags – Helps prevent head and chest injuries from frontal force.
• SRS knee airbags – Designed to stabilize lower body movement and prevent leg injuries.
• SRS side airbags – Helps provide additional protection to the driver and front passenger.
• SRS curtain shield airbags – Activated when an underside collision leads to instability or vehicle tilt.

The Toyota bZ4X integrates cutting-edge airbag deployment technology, ensuring that airbag activation is precisely tailored to the severity and nature of the collision. These systems work seamlessly alongside seat belt pretensioners and the Pre-Collision System (PCS) to provide a comprehensive approach to passenger safety.

• Airbags may activate if the vehicle experiences a sharp tilt or a strong impact, such as skidding into a curb or colliding with a solid obstacle.

• SRS curtain shield airbags

The SRS side airbags will not deploy when

• The following SRS airbags will not normally deploy in side or rear collisions, vehicle rollovers, or low speed frontal collisions. However, if such a collision causes sufficient sudden deceleration, the SRS airbags may deploy.

• SRS front airbags
• SRS knee airbags

• The following SRS airbags may not deploy if the vehicle is collided with at a certain angle or in a side collision where an area of the vehicle other than the passenger compartment is collided with:

• SRS side airbags
• SRS curtain shield airbags

• The following SRS airbags will not normally deploy in front or rear collisions, vehicle rollovers, or low speed side collisions:

• SRS side airbags

• The following SRS airbags will not normally deploy in rear collisions, end over end vehicle rollovers, or low speed front or side collisions:

• SRS curtain shield airbags

When to Contact Your Toyota Dealer

If your Toyota bZ4X has been involved in an accident or shows signs of damage, it is essential to have it inspected by a certified Toyota technician to ensure the continued safety and proper functioning of its systems.

Situations Requiring Immediate Inspection and Repair:

• Deployment of any SRS airbags – Once an airbag has been activated, the system requires replacement and recalibration to maintain future protection.
• Visible damage or deformation to the front of the vehicle – Even if the impact was not severe enough to trigger airbag deployment, structural integrity may have been compromised.

Potentially Affected Airbags:

• SRS front airbags – Critical for mitigating frontal collision injuries.
• SRS knee airbags – Designed to reduce lower-body impact during crashes.

Seeking timely inspection and service helps ensure that your Toyota bZ4X remains in peak safety condition, offering optimal protection on the road.

When to Contact Your Toyota Dealer for Door or Side Panel Damage

If your Toyota bZ4X has sustained damage to a door or its surrounding area-whether through deformation, punctures, or impact-it is crucial to seek an inspection, even if the SRS airbags have not deployed. The vehicle’s advanced safety systems rely on structural integrity, meaning seemingly minor damage could still affect airbag performance in future collisions.

Situations That Require Inspection:

• Visible deformation or dents in the door panel.
• A puncture or hole in the door or side structure.
• A collision involving the side of the vehicle that was not severe enough to activate airbag deployment.

Potentially Affected Airbags:

• SRS side airbags – Designed to cushion lateral impact forces.
• SRS curtain shield airbags – Provides protection against head injuries in side collisions and rollovers.

Timely inspection and repair by a Toyota-certified technician help maintain the effectiveness of your vehicle’s safety systems, ensuring that the Toyota bZ4X continues to provide optimal protection for occupants on every drive.

When to Contact Your Toyota Dealer for Airbag-Related Damage

Regular inspection of your Toyota bZ4X’s safety components is crucial to maintaining optimal protection for occupants. Certain types of damage-especially around airbag deployment areas-can compromise the effectiveness of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). If you notice any of the following issues, schedule an inspection with your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

Signs That Require Immediate Attention:

• Scratches, cracks, or other damage to the pad section of the steering wheel, dashboard near the front passenger airbag, or the lower instrument panel.
• Visible damage to the seat surface containing the SRS side airbag, which may affect proper inflation and deployment.
• Cracks, scratches, or deterioration in the front pillar, rear pillar, or roof side rail garnish covering the SRS curtain shield airbags.

The Toyota bZ4X’s advanced airbag system is designed to protect occupants during severe collisions, but compromised materials around airbag deployment zones can interfere with their effectiveness. Ensuring that these areas remain intact helps maintain the highest level of safety for you and your passengers.

WARNING

SRS Airbag Precautions

Follow these precautions to ensure maximum safety while driving your Toyota bZ4X. Neglecting these guidelines may result in serious injury or death.

• The driver and all passengers must always wear their seat belts correctly.
• The SRS airbags are supplementary safety systems and must be used in combination with seat belts to provide optimal protection.
• The SRS driver airbag deploys with significant force, which can cause serious injury or death, particularly if the driver is positioned too close to the airbag.
• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends maintaining a safe distance from the steering wheel to allow the airbag to deploy effectively.
• Children should not sit in the front passenger seat without an appropriate restraint system, as the force of airbag deployment can be hazardous to smaller passengers.
• Ensure no objects, such as luggage or accessories, obstruct the airbag deployment zones, as this can interfere with inflation and compromise safety.

The Toyota bZ4X incorporates advanced safety technology to enhance occupant protection, but proper use of seat belts and adherence to airbag precautions are essential for maximizing the system’s effectiveness. Regular safety checks at your Toyota dealer can help ensure that airbag systems remain in optimal working condition.

Maintaining a Safe Distance from the Driver Airbag in Your Toyota bZ4X

The driver's airbag in the Toyota bZ4X deploys at high speed within the first 2 - 3 inches (50 - 75 mm) of inflation. To reduce the risk of injury, it is recommended that you maintain a minimum 10-inch (250 mm) distance from the center of the steering wheel to your breastbone. This clearance ensures the airbag has enough space to expand fully before making contact, minimizing impact force on the driver.

Adjusting Your Driving Position for Optimal Safety

If your current seating position is too close to the steering wheel, consider making the following adjustments:

• Move your seat backward: Position the seat as far back as possible while ensuring you can comfortably reach the pedals. This adjustment provides additional airbag deployment space.
• Slightly recline the seatback: Most drivers can achieve the recommended 10-inch distance by reclining their seat slightly, even when the seat is positioned forward. If visibility becomes an issue, consider using a firm, non-slippery cushion or adjust the seat height if the vehicle is equipped with a height adjustment feature.
• Adjust the steering wheel angle: If your steering wheel is adjustable, tilt it downward so the airbag deploys toward your chest rather than your head or neck. This setup aligns with National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommendations for safer airbag interaction.

Seat Belt Extender Usage and Airbag Deployment

Proper seat belt usage is critical to ensure the functionality of the airbag system. If a seat belt extender is connected to the front seat belt buckle without fastening the latch plate, the SRS airbag system may mistakenly interpret that the occupant is secured. As a result, the airbags may fail to deploy correctly in a collision, leading to potentially fatal consequences.

Always ensure that the seat belt is worn correctly when using a seat belt extender. This guarantees that all safety mechanisms, including the Toyota bZ4X’s advanced airbag system, function as intended to provide maximum protection.

Why Proper Airbag and Seat Belt Positioning Matters

The Toyota bZ4X incorporates state-of-the-art safety technologies designed to protect occupants during sudden impacts. However, correct seating posture plays a crucial role in ensuring airbags deploy effectively. A well-adjusted driving position not only enhances comfort but also significantly improves collision safety, reducing the risk of serious injury in an accident.

By following these guidelines, you maximize the effectiveness of the airbag system and seat belt restraint in your Toyota bZ4X, ensuring a safer driving experience for yourself and all passengers.

Front Passenger Airbag Safety in the Toyota bZ4X

The SRS front passenger airbag in the Toyota bZ4X deploys with substantial force to provide crucial protection during severe collisions. However, improper seating positions can increase the risk of injury. Understanding the correct precautions ensures maximum safety for all occupants.

Key Safety Recommendations:

• Maintain proper seat positioning: The front passenger seat should be positioned as far back as possible while still allowing comfortable seating. The seatback should be upright to prevent excessive forward movement upon impact.
• Children and infants: Improperly seated or unrestrained children can suffer severe injuries from airbag deployment. Children who are too small for seat belts should always be secured in an appropriate child restraint system. Toyota recommends placing all infants and children in the rear seats, which provide a safer environment compared to the front passenger seat.
• Avoid unsafe seating positions: Passengers should never sit on the edge of the seat or lean forward toward the dashboard. Doing so increases the likelihood of injury when the airbag deploys.

Additional Safety Considerations:

The Toyota bZ4X features an advanced safety restraint system designed to enhance passenger protection. However, proper seat positioning and adherence to recommended seating guidelines significantly improve airbag effectiveness. Regular safety checks at a Toyota dealership help ensure that all airbag components remain operational and ready to provide maximum protection in emergency situations.

• Front seat occupants should never hold items on their lap.
• Do not allow a child to stand in front of the SRS front passenger airbag or sit on the lap of a front passenger.

• Do not lean against the door, roof side rail, or front, side, or rear pillar.

• Do not allow anyone to kneel on a seat toward the door or put their head or hands outside the vehicle.

• Do not attach anything to or lean anything against areas such as the dashboard, steering wheel pad and lower portion of the instrument panel.

• Do not attach anything to areas such as the doors, windshield, side windows, front or rear pillars, roof side rails and assist grips.

Important SRS Airbag Precautions for Your Toyota bZ4X

To maximize the safety benefits of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags in your Toyota bZ4X, it is essential to follow these precautions. Incorrect usage or interference with the airbag system can lead to severe injuries or prevent the airbags from functioning properly.

• Avoid placing hard objects near curtain shield airbags: Do not hang coat hangers or other rigid items on coat hooks. In the event of an airbag deployment, these objects can turn into dangerous projectiles, leading to serious injury or fatal consequences.
• Remove any vinyl covers from the SRS knee airbag area: Vinyl or aftermarket coverings can obstruct airbag deployment. Ensure that the knee airbag zone is free from such obstructions.
• Do not use seat accessories that cover airbag deployment zones: Items like aftermarket seat covers or cushions may interfere with airbag inflation, potentially disabling the system or causing unintended deployment, which can result in serious injury.
• Never strike or apply excessive force to airbag components: Avoid hitting or placing pressure on the SRS airbag system, front doors, or surrounding areas. This can cause the airbags to malfunction or deploy improperly.
• Do not touch airbag components after deployment: Airbags and their surrounding parts can remain extremely hot after inflation. Contact with these areas may cause burns or discomfort.
• Ventilate the cabin after airbag deployment: If you experience difficulty breathing due to airbag deployment residue, open a window or door to allow fresh air in. If necessary, exit the vehicle safely and wash off any residue to prevent skin irritation.
• Inspect damaged airbag storage areas: If any part of the vehicle housing an airbag is scratched or cracked, schedule an inspection and replacement at your Toyota dealer to ensure system reliability.
• Avoid placing objects on the front passenger seat: Items like cushions can alter the weight distribution, preventing the sensor from properly detecting an occupant. This may lead to incorrect airbag activation or failure to deploy in an emergency.

The Toyota bZ4X is equipped with advanced airbag technology designed to enhance passenger protection, but proper usage is essential to maintain its effectiveness. Regular maintenance and adherence to these precautions help ensure that the SRS airbags function as intended, providing reliable safety in critical situations.