Impact Sensors

There are multiple impact sensors which may be located in the front of the vehicle, in the front doors or on the B-pillar and on the C-pillar depending on the vehicle configuration. To view the locations of the impact sensors, refer to Master Electrical Component List . The front of vehicle, B-pillar and C-pillar impact sensors contain a sensing device which monitors vehicle acceleration to detect collisions that are severe enough to warrant air bag deployment. The front door impact sensors contain a sensing device which monitors the door cavity air pressure change to detect side collisions that are severe enough to warrant air bag deployment. It is important when working on components in the door to make sure any items which have a sealing impact on the door (water deflector, exterior door handle, speaker, door harness grommet or sealing strip) are securely fastened when reinstalled. The impact sensors are not part of the deployment loop, but instead provide input to the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). The Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module contains a microprocessor that performs calculations using the measured inputs from acceleration and pressure sensors. When the generated calculations exceed the stored value, the Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module will cause current to flow through the deployment loops deploying the appropriate air bags.