Satellite Acceleration Sensor: Description

Fig 1: VIEW OF SIDE IMPACT SENSOR

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

Vehicles equipped with side impact airbags use two impact or Satellite Acceleration Sensors (SAS). One is located on each respective side body B-pillar.

Fig 2: VIEW OF SATELLITE ACCELERATION SENSOR (SAS)

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

There are two SAS (standard) in the front of the vehicle to aid in frontal, angular and offset impact detection.

The satellite acceleration sensors 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.

Refer to the appropriate wiring information and Body Diagnostic article for diagnosis and testing.