Impact Sensor: Description: Side

Four side impact sensors (1) are used with the side curtain airbags, two each for the left and right sides of the vehicle. These sensors are mounted remotely from the impact sensor that is internal to the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). Each side sensor is secured with a screw to the inner right or left B-pillar ahead of the front seat belt retractor, and the inner quarter panel near the C-pillar beneath the trim within the passenger compartment. The sensor housing has an integral connector receptacle (4), an integral anti-rotation pin (3), and an integral mounting hole (2) with a metal sleeve to provide crush protection.

The right and left side impact sensors are identical in construction and calibration. A cavity in the center of the molded black plastic impact sensor housing contains the electronic circuitry of the sensor which includes an electronic communication chip and an electronic impact sensor. Potting material fills the cavity to seal and protect the internal electronic circuitry and components. The side impact sensors are each connected to the vehicle electrical system through a dedicated take out and connector of the body wire harness.

The impact sensors cannot be repaired or adjusted and, if damaged or ineffective, they must be replaced.