It's cool to have a fun car that still takes care of the little ones.

 

Thank you. Exactly the info I was looking for.

 

And, yes, another confirmation that the smart airbag (with weight sensor) was introduced stateside only in MY06+.

I am not certain that the airbag is completely disabled for lower-weight passengers, as I think recent technology has the ability to deploy with less force. In any case, earlier cars can be outfitted with actual on/off switches -- see my signature for all the gory details about the AHM/NHTSA process if you choose to go that way.

Best wishes.

 

The airbag system is a two stage system. I would have to look this up to be certain, but I seem to recall that the dealer's explanation included a dual range to the sensor, under 65 lbs weight in the seat would disable the airbags, and then between 65 but still under a secondary weight, only one stage of the bag would deploy.

Maybe one of the tech guys could confirm this? I'm not sure I'll have the opportunity to locate the data today.

 

The dealer is clueless and I haven't found any data online. I would assume the owner's manual must say something about it...???

 

Ok ... I actually did have the manual in the trunk with me (gotta remember to file that back when I get home).

Surprisingly, the manual does not specifically state the cut-off weight for the sensor, but I do recall the dealership quoting that 65lb number to me back in the spring when I bought my car. anything greater than 0lbs and under 65lbs - sensor turns passenger bag system off.

The dual stage deployment is dependant on other factors, but not he passenger's weight.

Bumper sensor ... low level impact (under 25-30 mph???) only first stage deploys. Higher speed impact deploys both stages

Seatbelt sensor: seatbelt harness correctly closed, airbag operates normally. Seatbelt not worn (clicked), airbag deploys with less force

I'll keep checking for more specifics ... we have 3 dealer techs in this region who are also S owners. If I catch them online, will ask them as well.

 

Well, I think you're close. While this statement from our under-the-hood thread on MY06 differences doesn't specify the weight detail (i.e., what is "safe weight"), it seems to support what you're learning:

5. SRS system. Several new components, front impact sensors have been added, as well as a passengers seat weight sensor. The Passenger airbag now is shut off when someone under a safe weight is in the seat.There is also a driver seat position sensor, which changes bag deployment forcebased on seat position. The passengers bag shut off indicator is above the radio door.

00-05 passenger seats will not function with the system. The weight sensor is built into the seat rails.