Electrical System

General System Operation
The air bag system is powered directly from the battery. The system can function with the ignition switch in any position, including OFF and Lock. The system can also function when the driver's seat is unoccupied. The electrical system performs three main functions:
^ Detects an impact.
^ Switches electric power to the igniter.
^ Monitors the system to determine readiness.

The electrical system components include:
^ Electronic diagnostic monitor.
^ Air bag system readiness indicator.
^ Wiring harness and contact assembly.
^ Sensors.
^ Igniter Assembly.
^ Backup power supply.






Sensors
The sensor assembly is an electrical switch which reacts to impacts according to direction and force. It discriminates between impacts that require air bag inflation and impacts that do not require air bag inflation. When an impact occurs that requires air bag inflation, the sensor contacts close, completing the electrical circuit necessary for system operation.

Four sensors are mounted in the vehicle. Their locations are as follows:
^ At the center of the radiator support.
^ At the RH side of the radiator support.
^ At the LH side of the radiator support.
^ At the center cowl in the engine compartment.

At least two sensors, one safing, one front, must be activated simultaneously to inflate the air bag.

Backup Power Supply
A backup power supply is included in the system to provide air bag deployment if the battery or battery cables are damaged in an accident before the crash sensors close. The power supply is a capacitor that will leak down in approximately 15 minutes after the battery is disconnected or in one minute if the battery positive cable is grounded. It is located in the RH instrument panel above the glove compartment.

WARNING: THE BACKUP POWER SUPPLY MUST BE DISCONNECTED BEFORE ANY AIR BAG COMPONENT SERVICE IS PERFORMED.