That would be the "vehicle center sensor" that probably does, as others have said, monitor impact forces, etc. to help determine if airbag(s) or belt tensioners need to deploy. I think the belt tensioner is actually a cartridge (cylindrical in shape) that is mounted at the bottom of the seat, near the bottom of the seat belt latch...

 

Why don't you jab at it several times with a screwdriver and report back what happens? Maybe that'll help us figure out what it is?

 

seat belt tensioners are most commonly found in the B and C pillars of the vehicle

 

lmao, why don't i jab you in the eye several times with a screwdriver and see what happens

thanks rudy

 

True, but not on our cars...

 

Its the "black box" which records all commiunications should your aircraft crash.

Or

Its where all your hopes and dreams go when you give up. Feel good about the fact that it is a small box, means you are a go getter!

 

+1

There are two sensors to monitor forces to determine the need to deploy the airbags. In my BMW era Land Rover the one in the center console is a chafing sensor that is more or less the safety for airbag deployment. Both sensors need to trip for deployment.