Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
4.2.2. Detecting crashes
European version vehicles are equipped with the following sensors:
- One transverse and longitudinal acceleration sensor in the central sensor (yellow)
- One transverse and longitudinal acceleration sensor in each of the B-pillars (green)
- One airbag sensor for pressure in each of the front doors (blue).
- One longitudinal acceleration sensor on each of the engine supports (red)
The longitudinal acceleration sensors can measure both positive and negative acceleration. Using these signals, a front-end or rear-end crash is detected.
A side-on crash is detected using the lateral acceleration sensors and airbag sensors in the doors.
A crash in which the force-transfer direction is not perpendicular to the vehicle's longitudinal or transverse axis is detected by means of a combined transverse and longitudinal acceleration.
The longitudinal acceleration sensors on the engine supports serve to detect a front-end crash and its severity.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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