Impact Sensor: Description and Operation

WARNING: THE RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE (RCM) ORIENTATION IS CRITICAL FOR PROPER SYSTEM OPERATION. IF A VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH AN AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN A COLLISION IN WHICH THE CENTER TUNNEL AREA HAS BEEN DAMAGED, INSPECT THE MOUNTING AND BRACKET FOR DEFORMATION. IF DAMAGED, THE RCM MUST BE REPLACED WHETHER OR NOT THE AIR BAGS HAVE DEPLOYED. IN ADDITION, MAKE SURE THE AREA OF THE RCM MOUNTING IS RESTORED TO ITS ORIGINAL PRODUCTION CONFIGURATION.

CAUTION: Sensors are repaired by replacement only. Do not attempt to determine whether a sensor is OK. Always replace the sensor even if it does not appear to be damaged.

For this vehicle the SRS employs four impact sensors. Two of the sensors are integral to the RCM and are not separately serviceable. In addition, there are two side impact sensors located at the base of the B-pillars. The RCM is mounted on the center tunnel under the instrument panel. Mounting orientation is critical for correct operation of all impact sensors.