Inertia Latch

With the inertia seat back system, the seat back is folded forward for rear seat entry or exit by pushing the seat back forward. The inertia latch assembly remains unlocked with normal usage. It locks only during vehicle deceleration (emergency stopping or upon impact) or on steep downhill grades. A manual (override) release handle is provided only to help unlock the latch in the event of latch lockup on steep downhill grades, severe vehicle altitude changes, or as a result of an accident.

The inertia latch assembly is factory-installed in its proper location. If the latch assembly is removed for any reason, it must be installed as outlined under removal and installation. See SEAT BACK LATCH  under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. If a latch assembly or component is non-functional or damaged, the entire latch assembly must be replaced. Under no circumstances are inertia latch components to be replaced or serviced as individual components.

The entirely modular inertia latch mechanism is located on the outboard rear corner of the front seat assembly. See Figure . This mechanism also provides seat back pivot. The latch is used on all bucket seat applications. A visible emergency override release handle on the outside rear corner of the seat back can be manually operated to unlock the latch during adverse conditions.