Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Side - Third Row Seating
Two acceleration-type third row seating side impact sensors (1) are used on this vehicle when it is equipped with the side curtain airbags, one each for the left and right sides of the vehicle. These sensors are mounted remotely from the impact sensor that is internal to the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). Each side sensor is secured with a screw to the right or left quarter inner panel just above the right or left rear wheel housing within the passenger compartment. The sensor housing has an integral connector receptacle (3), an integral locating anti-rotation pin, and an integral mounting hole (2).
The right and left third row seating side impact sensors are identical in construction and calibration. However, the connector orientation in the vehicle is reversed. The connector receptacle faces forward on the right side of the vehicle, and faces rearward on the left side of the vehicle. A cavity in the center of the molded black plastic impact sensor housing contains the electronic circuitry of the sensor which includes an electronic communication chip and an electronic impact sensor. The cavity is filled with a potting material to seal and protect the internal electronic circuitry and components. The third row seating side impact sensors are each connected to the vehicle electrical system through a dedicated take out and connector of the body wire harness.
These acceleration-type third row seating side impact sensors cannot be repaired or adjusted and, if damaged or ineffective, they must be replaced.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.