Retractor TENSIONER
Seat belt retractor tensioners supplement the dual front airbag system for all versions of this vehicle. These tensioners are integral to the front seat belt and retractor units (2), which are secured to the inner B-pillar on the right and left sides of the vehicle. The retractor is concealed beneath the molded plastic inner B-pillar lower trim. The retractor tensioners are controlled by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). Each retractor tensioner has a Micro Gas Generator (MGG) controlled by an initiator (1) connected to the vehicle electrical system through a dedicated take out of the body wire harness by a keyed and latching yellow molded plastic connector insulator to ensure a secure connection.
The retractor tensioners cannot be repaired and, if ineffective or damaged, the entire front or rear outboard seat belt and retractor unit must be replaced. If the front airbags have been deployed, the retractor tensioners have also been deployed. The retractor tensioners are not intended for reuse and must be replaced following any front airbag deployment. A growling or grinding sound while attempting to operate the seat belt retractor is a sure indication that the retractor tensioner has been deployed and requires replacement. Refer to RETRACTOR, SEAT BELT, REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .