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.
Sensor, Occupant Detection: Description
An Occupant Detection Sensor (ODS) is located directly below the passenger side front seat cushion trim cover. This sensor provides information to the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) used for control of the passenger belt alert feature.
The ODS consists of a flexible clear plastic sensor mat (1) containing several resistive membrane, force sensing resistor cells. The sensor is secured by two adhesive patches (2) to the top surface of the seat cushion foam. If the vehicle is equipped with either heated seats or heated and ventilated seats the respective heater or heat and ventilation mat is placed over the top of the ODS mat on the seat cushion foam. The adhesive patches on the ODS are a one time only material and cannot be reactivated or reused if removed.
A short, two-conductor pigtail wire and connector (4) connect the sensor to the vehicle electrical system through a dedicated take out and connector of the seat wire harness. A hot melt adhesive block (3) encapsulates and protects the connections between the electrical conductors in the tail of the sensor mat and the pigtail wires as well as a diagnostic resistor.
The ODS cannot be adjusted or repaired, and must be replaced if damaged or ineffective.
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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.