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.
Front And Side Impact Sensor
The front and side impact sensors are electronic accelerometers that sense the rate of vehicle deceleration, and combined with the ORC Accelerometer Sensor 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. The ORC microprocessor continuously monitors all of the front and side passive restraint system electrical circuits to determine the system readiness. If the ORC detects a system fault, it sets a Diagnostic Trouble Code and controls the airbag indicator operation accordingly. The impact sensors each receive battery current and ground through dedicated left and right sensor signal and ground circuits from the ORC. The impact sensors and the ORC communicate by modulating the voltage in the sensor signal circuit. If the sensor is dropped it must be replaced.
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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.