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What airbag parts do I replace?


Today I received a call from a body shop that was unsure of the components to replace after a deployment. They were working on a 2006 Nissan Maxima. Only the driver’s airbag deployed and they, along with the insurance appraiser, were confused as to why this happened and what parts were actually needed. The front harness was cut from the accident as well. The estimate allowed them the driver’s airbag and the replacement of the front harness only.

Looking it up in our database as well as the factory database, this vehicle calls for all deployed components along with the control unit to be replaced after deployment. I directed them to check the seat belts (which were overlooked originally), for operation. These pretensioners deploy milliseconds prior to the airbag deployment. We discussed how many occupants were in the car (only the driver was). I explained to them that beginning as early as 2002 manufacturers have been installing occupant sensors and “smart bags”. These systems determine who is at risk and what level of deployment the airbag system should implement. If no one is sitting in the passenger seat (or it is a small child), the airbag will not go off on that side.

Upon closer examination of the car, they found that this vehicle needed the following components:

• Driver’s airbag

• Clockspring …it was melted and discovered only after the airbag was removed. (this component only comes as part of the multi-function switch.)

• Both front seat belt pretensioners (neither one worked properly, they had both deployed)

• Front sensor (required)

• Airbag control unit (required)

• Front wiring harness

After installing all of these components, the system will have been repaired to Nissan standards and give the repair shop the confidence that the customer’s safety and protection has been restored to the original level of reliability.

These are the types if questions Airbagsolutions.com answers completely and effectively. Knowing what you need gives you the advantage of understanding these systems better and repairing them according to the manufacturer’s requirements.

Print | posted on Monday, June 18, 2007 4:20 AM

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