Seat Belt: Description and Operation

SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR - FRONT OUTBOARD
The seat belt system incorporates Tensioner Modules. They are integral to the front seat belt retractors and cannot be serviced. If found defective they must be replaced. In the event of an impact, the retractor assembly must be replaced regardless of belt condition. The tensioner is a one time pyrotechnic device.

At the onset of an impact event, each tensioner uses a pyrotechnic device which is triggered simultaneously with the front airbags to rapidly retract the seat belts. With the slack removed, the occupant's forward motion in an impact will be reduced as will the likelihood of contacting interior components. After an impact that deploys the airbags, the seat belt tensioner assembly must be replaced.

The Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) monitors the seat belt tensioner circuit resistance and reports active and stored Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) if any problem is found.

WARNING: WHEN THE FRONT AIRBAG IS DEPLOYED, THE TENSIONER WILL HAVE DEPLOYED ALSO AND MUST BE REPLACED.