What is the function of an impact sensor in modern vehicles?

The function of an impact sensor in modern vehicles is to detect collisions and deploy airbags. These sensors are crucial for passenger safety as they respond to sudden changes in velocity or direction that occur during a crash. When an impact is sensed, the sensor sends a signal to the vehicle's airbag control module. This module processes the information and determines whether to deploy the airbags based on the severity of the collision.

This immediate response is vital in minimizing injury to occupants during a crash by providing protection through the rapid inflation of airbags. In contrast, options related to measuring tire pressure, adjusting engine performance, or monitoring fuel efficiency focus on different aspects of vehicle operation and performance rather than safety during collisions. These functions are managed by other systems within the vehicle, demonstrating how each component has its specific purpose in overall vehicle functionality.