Buick Encore: Airbag System / What Makes an Airbag Inflate?

Buick Encore 2020-2025 Owner's Manual / Seats and Restraints / Airbag System / What Makes an Airbag Inflate?

In a deployment event, the sensing system sends an electrical signal triggering a release of gas from the inflator. Gas from the inflator fills the airbag causing the bag to break out of the cover. The inflator, the airbag, and related hardware are all part of the airbag module.

For airbag locations, see Where Are the Airbags?.

When Should an Airbag Inflate?

This vehicle is equipped with airbags. See Airbag System. Airbags are designed to inflate if the impact exceeds the specific airbag system's deployment threshold...

How Does an Airbag Restrain?

In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. In moderate to severe side collisions, even belted occupants can contact the inside of the vehicle...

Other information:

Buick Encore 2020-2025 Owner's Manual: Conversions and Add-Ons

Add-On Electrical Equipment Warning The Data Link Connector (DLC) is used for vehicle service and Emission Inspection/ Maintenance testing. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light). A device connected to the DLC — such as an aftermarket fleet or driver-behavior tracking device — may interfere with vehicle systems...

Buick Encore 2020-2025 Owner's Manual: Extended Parking

It is best not to park with the vehicle running. If the vehicle is left running, be sure it will not move and there is adequate ventilation. See Shifting Into Park and Engine Exhaust. If the vehicle is left parked and running with the RKE transmitter outside the vehicle, it will continue to run for up to half an hour...