OPERATION
FRONT
The front impact sensors are electronic accelerometers that sense the rate of vehicle deceleration, which provides
verification of the direction and severity of an impact. Each sensor also contains an electronic communication chip
that allows the unit to communicate the sensor status as well as sensor fault information to the microprocessor in
the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC).
The ORC microprocessor continuously monitors all of the passive restraint system electrical circuits to determine the
system readiness. If the ORC detects a monitored system fault, it sets a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and con-
trols the airbag indicator operation accordingly. The impact sensors each receive battery current and ground through
dedicated left and right sensor plus and minus circuits from the ORC. The impact sensors and the ORC commu-
nicate by modulating the voltage in the sensor plus circuit.
To diagnose the impact sensors or the electronic controls and communication related to front impact sensor oper-
ation requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
SIDE
The side impact sensors are electronic accelerometers that sense the rate of vehicle deceleration, which provides
verification of the direction and severity of an impact. Each sensor also contains an electronic communication chip
that allows the unit to communicate the sensor status as well as sensor fault information to the microprocessor in
the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC).
The ORC microprocessor continuously monitors all of the side passive restraint system electrical circuits to deter-
mine the system readiness. If the ORC detects a monitored system fault, it sets a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)
and controls the airbag indicator operation accordingly. The impact sensors each receive battery current and ground
through the same left or right sensor plus and minus circuits in a series arrangement from the ORC. The impact
sensors and the ORC communicate by modulating the voltage in the sensor plus circuit.
To diagnose the impact sensors or the electronic controls and communication related to side impact sensor oper-
ation requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
REMOVAL
FRONT
1. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
WARNING: Wait two minutes for the system
reserve capacitor to discharge before servicing
any airbag components.
2. Remove the screw (4) that secures the right or left
front impact sensor (3) to the back of the right or
left radiator support vertical member (2).
3. Disconnect the connector (1) from the sensor (3).
4. Remove the right or left front impact sensor from
the engine compartment.
PM
RESTRAINTS - SERVICE INFORMATION
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