Magnum SRT-8 V8-6.1L VIN 3 (2006)
sensors and the ORC requires the use of a scan tool and the appropriate diagnostic information.
SIDE IMPACT SENSORS
Four side impact sensors are used on this model when it is equipped with the curtain airbags, two each for the left and right sides of the vehicle. The
sedan and wagon side impact sensor locations are identical. These sensors are mounted remotely from the impact sensor that is internal to the Occupant
Restraint Controller (ORC). Each side sensor is secured with two screws to the inner right or left B-pillar and C-pillar within the passenger compartment.
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 impact sensors cannot be repaired or adjusted and, if damaged or faulty, they must be replaced.
The side 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 side 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 the same left or right sensor plus and minus circuits in a series arrangement 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
sensors and the ORC requires the use of a scan tool and the appropriate diagnostic information.
