Liberty 4WD V6-3.7L (2009)
The multistage passenger airbag is deployed by electrical signals generated by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) through the passenger airbag
squib 1 and squib 2 circuits to the two initiators of the hybrid airbag inflator. By using two initiators, the airbag can be deployed at multiple levels of
force. The force level is controlled by the ORC to suit the monitored impact conditions by providing one of several delay intervals between the electrical
signals provided to the two initiators. The longer the delay between these signals, the less forcefully the airbag will deploy.
When the ORC sends the proper electrical signals to each initiator, the electrical energy generates enough heat to initiate a small pyrotechnic charge
which produces the pressure necessary to rupture a containment disk in an inert gas canister. The inflator and inert gas canister are sealed to the airbag
cushion and a diffuser in the inflator directs all of the inert gas into the airbag cushion, causing the cushion to inflate. As the cushion inflates, the
passenger airbag door will split horizontally at predetermined tear seam lines concealed on the inside surface of the door. The upper half of the door
pivots up and the lower half pivots down and out of the way. Following an airbag deployment, the airbag cushion quickly deflates by venting the inert
gas through a vent hole in each fabric side panel of the airbag cushion.
Typically, both initiators are used during an airbag deployment event. However, it is possible for only one initiator to be used during a deployment due to
an airbag system fault; therefore, it is necessary to always confirm that both initiators have been used in order to avoid the improper disposal of
potentially live pyrotechnic materials. See: Service and Repair.
Proper diagnosis of the passenger airbag inflator and the passenger airbag squib circuits requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
