Belt Tension Sensor: Description

Fig 1: Belt Tension Sensor

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

Vehicles equipped with the Occupant Classification System (OCS) include a belt tension sensor. This sensor is integral to the passenger side front seat belt lower anchor which is secured to the outboard side of the passenger side front seat cushion frame. The lower anchor and belt tension sensor are concealed beneath an access cover on the outboard seat cushion side shield on the passenger side front seat. The belt tension sensor consists of a molded plastic housing with a central mounting hole, a metal seat belt anchor loop, and a short pigtail wire. The electronic circuitry of the belt tension sensor is concealed and protected within the molded plastic housing. The sensor is connected to the vehicle electrical system through its pigtail wire to a dedicated take out of the passenger side front seat wire harness with a keyed and latching molded plastic connector insulator to ensure a proper and secure connection.

The belt tension sensor cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, the entire passenger side front seat belt and retractor unit must be replaced. (Refer to ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/FRONT SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR - REMOVAL) .