Magnum V6-3.5L VIN V (2006)
Impact Sensor: Description and Operation
IMPACT SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
FRONT IMPACT SENSORS
Two front impact sensors (1) are used on this model, 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 two screws (2) 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
fills the cavity to seal and protect the internal electronic circuitry and components.
The impact sensors cannot be repaired or adjusted and, if damaged or faulty, they must be replaced.
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.
The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to diagnose the impact sensors, the ORC, and the electronic message communication between the
