I got a 3 airbag system in my Sportage (driver, knee, and passenger). I read somewhere that there are 3 sensors that control the deployment. And that they all have to agree.I read that 2 are located in front, and one in the cab, but I'm looking at Fabbing a new bumber. Want to take the old one off and I'm hoping it doesnt contain the sensors (that would be bad)Anybody know where they are?

Already jumped it over the weekend with fair about of air. And with the hard hit and landing I took I was mildly suprised they didnt open.

If I remember right, the sensors are located in the chasis (in the crumple section up front), the airbags will deploy with a direct hit @ 8mph. I do know that the sensors are NOT located in the bumper, so hack away! Just know that a fabbed bumper will be more rigid and will be more likely to deploy when off-roading. I will be making a set of bumpers for myself shortly and plan to make an airbag disabling switch to turn the airbags off while off-roading. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Good luck with the bumpers! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" /> Post some pics when you're done!

The airbag deployment sensors are actually located within the ADU (Airbag Diagnostic Unit) which is physically located under the console in front of the shifter. There are no sensors in the frame or bumper.

I thought about a disable switch for the airbags while 4xing. (This is my first auto with airbags installed. Thought it was time to get out of the 80's) How would i go about putting in a switch? Or is it a bad idea to mess with any of the airbag wiring. What have you guys done?

It MIGHT be possible to pull the airbag fuse and disable the ADU. But don't bet on it. That ADU is pretty "smart" and has a backup power supply. There is a very specific protocol that must be followed per the shop manual to disable the airbag system so you can service it or safely remove an airbag to install an alarm, stereo, etc. If you DON'T follow that protocol to the letter the ADU will set a trouble code and the airbag light will flash continuously. And the only way to reset the system is with a Kia Pro Scan tool. A standard code reader won't reset it. So that would involve a trip to the dealer to get the system reset.

I've never heard of any airbag deployment due to rough wheeling. While I'm sure it's certainly possible the chances are remote.

Good to know. I'll leave them be. Trust that the airbag engineers knew that I'd be wheeling in the KIA when they designed them. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/coolg.gif" alt="" />

Thanks, Axe. I knew the sensors weren't in the bumper, but couldn't remember where they were. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shiner.gif" alt="" />