Electrical System

The air bag system is powered directly from the battery. The system can function with the ignition switch in any position, including OFF and LOCK. The system can also function when the driver or passenger seats are unoccupied. The electrical system performs three main functions:
1. Detects an impact
2. Switches electric power to the igniter(s)
3. Monitors the system to determine readiness

The electrical system components include:
^ Electronic Diagnostic monitor with integrated backup power supply
^ Air bag system readiness indicator
^ Wiring harness and contact clockspring assembly
^ Sensors
^ The igniter within the driver and passenger air bags

SENSORS






The sensor is an electrical switch which reacts to impacts according to direction and force. It discriminates between impacts that require air bag inflation and impacts that do not require air bag inflation. When an impact occurs that requires air bag inflation, the sensor contacts close, completing the electrical circuit necessary for system operation.

Three sensors are mounted in the vehicle. Their locations are as follows:
^ A crash sensor at the RH front radiator support.
^ A crash sensor at the LH front radiator support.
^ A safing sensor at the LH cowl side in the passenger compartment.

At least two sensors, one safing and one crash, must be activated to inflate the air bag.