What component in an air bag system activates the air bag modules during a front end collision?

The correct answer is the control module. This component is a critical part of the air bag system as it processes the information received from various sensors throughout the vehicle. During a front-end collision, the control module determines whether the impact is severe enough to warrant air bag deployment.

It relies on data from impact sensors that detect changes in speed and deceleration during a collision. The control module then sends a signal to the air bag modules to deploy the air bags if necessary, ensuring occupant safety effectively. This decision-making aspect is essential, as the control module is the brain of the air bag system, analyzing sensor inputs and initiating the appropriate response in the event of a crash.

Other components mentioned, such as supplemental sensors and impact sensors, play important roles in providing input to the control module. The restraint module is typically a part of the overall seatbelt and air bag system but does not solely activate the air bags. Understanding the hierarchy and functionality of these components is crucial for comprehending how vehicle safety systems operate during collisions.