Front Impact Sensors

There are two front impact sensors, one 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). The right and left front and side impact sensors are identical in construction and calibration and each front impact sensor is secured with two screws. The front impact sensors are secured with two screws to the outboard sides of the right and left vertical members of the radiator support within the engine compartment. See Figure.

The impact sensor housing has an integral connector receptacle and two integral mounting ears, each with a metal sleeve to provide crush protection. 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 front impact sensors are each connected to the vehicle electrical system through a dedicated take out and connector of the right or left headlamp and dash wire harnesses.

The front impact sensors cannot be repaired or adjusted and, if damaged or faulty, they must be replaced. If a front impact sensor is faulty, only the sensor needs to be replaced. If the sensor is damaged or faulty, or if proper tightening torque of the screws that secure the sensor to the bracket cannot be achieved, the sensor and bracket unit must be replaced. Refer to the BODY DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES article for diagnosis and testing.