PT Cruiser L4-2.4L (2008)
Impact Sensor: Description and Operation
Sensor-Satellite Acceleration - PT27
Description
DESCRIPTION
PT27 vehicles equipped with side impact airbags use two side impact or Satellite Acceleration Sensors (SAS).
One SAS (3) is located on each respective side, just in front of the B-pillar (1).
The SAS's are electronic accelerometers that sense the rate of vehicle deceleration and when combined with the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)
accelerometer, provides verification of the direction and severity of a side 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 ORC.
For diagnosis and testing, use a scan tool and refer to the appropriate body diagnostic information.
Operation
OPERATION
The Satellite Acceleration Sensor (SAS) provides verification of the direction and severity of the side impact to the Occupant Restraint Controller
(ORC). The ORC controls both the right and the left right side seat airbags. In the event of a side impact the ORC will send an electronic signal to deploy
the appropriate seat airbag. The SAS periodically transmit the acceleration data to the ORC by modulation of the current on the power supply.
The accelerometer pulses are sent to a microprocessor, which contains a decision algorithm. When an impact is severe enough to require airbag
protection, the ORC microprocessor sends a signal to deploy the side airbag that completes the electrical circuits to the right or left side airbag. The ORC
is calibrated for the specific vehicle and reacts to the severity and direction of the impact.
The ORC microprocessor continuously monitors all of the passive restraint system electrical circuits to determine the system readiness. If the ORC
detects a system fault, it sets a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and controls the airbag warning indicator operation accordingly. The side impact sensors
receive battery current and ground through dedicated driver and passenger sensor signal and ground circuits from the ORC. If the sensor is dropped it
must be replaced.
