OK, I searched and found some threads on the passenger airbag stating that if less then 100lbs is in the passenger seat then the airbag will not deploy. I have read the owners manuel and can not find anything to confirm the above statement.

My wife is looking to do a long trip across part of the country and would like to have our 17 month son in the passenger seat, IF the airbag will not be active.

Can anybody provide a link (that has official Mazda documentation) that shows that the airbag will not deploy if less then 100lbs is on the front passenger seat? Thanks

 

I want to know too


BUMP

 

Looks like the answer is NO.

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/testin...dvFrontABs.htm

 

Based on this section from your above link, I would think that the sensor would recognize a lack of weight?

Does anybody have anything from Mazda on this issue?

13. How does sensor technology classify the type of occupant?

Most occupant classification systems in use today classify the occupant based upon weight. Occupant weight (sensed weight) is determined using pressure sensors in the seat cushion, weight sensors between the seat and the floor and/or by measuring seat belt tension.

As an additional way of classifying an occupant, other technologies are becoming available that can help the advanced frontal air bag system recognize the pressure profile on the seat bottom, such as pattern recognition technologies. Still more sophisticated systems utilize optical, infrared, ultrasonic or electric field sensors to classify the occupant type. Check your owner's manual or contact your vehicle's manufacturer to determine what type of occupant classification technology you may have in your vehicle.

 

You need to look further down. The RX-8 is not listed as one of the vehicles with the newer style airbags.. So we're SOL.

 

the us spec cars do not have this feature. other countries do. ever notice the little circle int he plastic to the left of the glove compartment. in cars that have the airbag off mechanism that is where the indicator is. here is a pic



picture courtesy of rotarynews.com

 

Thanks folks, This is the type of proof I need to believe.