7th Gen Side Impact Sensor question

[JohnnyU]

My SRS Air Bag light is on in my 2005 and the generous dealer charges me only $95 for 10 minutes work to tell me it is caused by:

CODE 46-11 RIGHT SIDE SECOND IMPACT SENSOR NO SIGNAL
CODE 41-11 LEFT FRONT IMPACT SENSOR NO SIGNAL

Then tells me both sensors need to be replaced at the low price of $400.
2 questions:

1. What is probability that both sensors go out at the same time? Same as both headlights going out at the same time? I smell possible fish.

2. This should be a DIY - both sensors can be had for under $100 including shipping. I searched and it appears the front sensor is behind the bumper so just need to remove the front bumper cover?

Anybody replaced a side impact sensor? Where is it? Any guidance here much appreciated.

Thanks for letting me vent. And thanks in advance for any help.

JU

[03LXV6]

That second impact sensor on the right side looks like it located in the C-Pillar according to the shop manual.

NOTE: Make sure the SRS unit and the impact sensors are of the same manufacturer.

Removal

1. Disconnect the battery negative cable, and wait at least 3 minutes before beginning work
2. Disconnect the appropriate side curtain airbag 2P connector
3. Remove the side trim panel
4. Disconnect the side impact sensor (second) 2P connector (A) from the side curtain airbag harness.
5. Remove the TORX bolts using a TORX 30 bit, then remove the side impact sensor (second)

* It says to remove the headliner to be able to get to the connector in step 2
*Tighten TORX bolt to 7.2 lbf.ft

[JohnnyU]

Thanks. Is that the Helminc shop manual at http://www.helminc.com?

[03LXV6]

Yes.