Airbag Control Module
The dedicated computer that processes crash sensor data and triggers airbag deployment when a collision occurs.
The airbag control module (also known as the SRS module, restraint system module, or sensing diagnostic module) is a critical safety computer located inside the passenger cabin, typically under the center console or seats where it is protected from impact.
The module continuously monitors data from multiple accelerometer and impact sensors positioned around the vehicle. In a collision, the module processes this data in milliseconds to determine the severity and angle of the crash. If a threshold is exceeded, it sends an electrical signal to trigger the airbag inflators and seatbelt pretensioners.
In addition to deploying safety restraints, the airbag module performs self-diagnostics every time the vehicle is turned on. If it detects a fault in any airbag, sensor, or wiring circuit, it illuminates the airbag warning light on the dashboard and disables the system for safety.
Because it contains critical safety programming and stores crash data (black box data), a deployed or failed airbag control module must be replaced or professionally reset, and programmed with the vehicle's VIN before the system is active again.