Impact Sensor: Description and Operation
IMPACT SENSORSWARNING:
- Mounting orientation of the impact sensors and the RCM is critical for correct system operation. If a vehicle has been involved in a collision in which the center tunnel area has been damaged, inspect the RCM mounting area for deformation. Inspect the impact sensor mounting area for damage. If damaged, a new RCM and sensors must be installed whether or not the air bags have deployed. In addition, make sure the mounting area of the RCM and impact sensors are restored to the original production configuration.
- Vehicle sensor orientation is critical for correct system operation. If a vehicle equipped with an air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) is involved in a collision, inspect the sensor mounting bracket and wiring pigtail for deformation. Install and correctly position a new sensor or any other damaged supplemental restraint system (SRS) components whether or not the air bag is deployed.
The impact sensors provide data to the RCM for use in calculating impact severity. This is accomplished using various electrical sensors located throughout the vehicle.
For these vehicles, the SRS employs up to 7 impact sensors. One of the sensors is integral to the RCM and is not separately serviceable. The RCM is mounted on the center tunnel between the front seats. There are 2 front impact severity sensors located in the front-center of the vehicle, behind the grille. In addition, on vehicles equipped with seat side air bags and safety canopies, there are 4 side impact sensors located on or near the base of each B- and C-pillar. Mounting orientation is critical for correct operation of all impact sensors.