Caliber SRT-4 L4-2.4L Turbo VIN F (2007)
Impact Sensor: Description and Operation
Front
Description
FRONT
Two front impact sensors (1) are used on this vehicle, 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). Each front sensor is secured with a screw to the backs of the right and left
vertical members of the radiator support within the engine compartment.
The right and left front 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
that 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 the headlamp and dash wire harness.
The impact sensors cannot be repaired or adjusted and, if damaged or ineffective, they must be replaced.
Operation
FRONT
The front impact sensors are electronic accelerometers that sense the rate of vehicle deceleration, which 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 (ORC).
The ORC microprocessor continuously monitors all of the passive restraint system electrical circuits to determine the system readiness. If the ORC
detects a monitored system fault, it sets a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and controls the airbag indicator operation accordingly. The impact sensors
each receive battery current and ground through dedicated left and right sensor plus and minus circuits from the ORC. The impact sensors and the ORC
communicate by modulating the voltage in the sensor plus circuit.
To diagnose the impact sensors or the electronic controls and communication related to front impact sensor operation requires the use of a diagnostic
scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
