SIR System Service Precautions

Caution: In order to avoid deploying the air bag when troubleshooting the SIR system, use only the equipment specified and the instructions given. Failure to use the specified equipment as instructed could cause air bag deployment, personal injury to you or someone else, or unnecessary SIR system repairs.

Caution: If any water enters the vehicle's interior up to the level of the carpet or higher and soaks the carpet, the Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) and the SDM harness connector may need to be replaced. The SDM could be activated when powered, which could cause deployment of the air bag(s) and result in personal injury. Before attempting these procedures, the SIR system must be disabled. Refer to Disabling the SIR System. With the ignition OFF, inspect the SDM mounting area, including the carpet. If any significant soaking or evidence of significant soaking is detected, you must perform the following steps:
^ Remove all water.
^ Repair the water damage.
^ Replace the SDM harness connector.
^ Replace the SDM.
Failure to follow these procedures could result in possible air bag deployment, personal injury, or otherwise unneeded SIR system repairs.

These diagnostic procedures will help you to find and repair SIR system malfunctions. This service category also contains information for repairing SIR system malfunctions. For best results, use the diagnostic tables and follow the sequence listed below:
1. Perform the SIR Diagnostic System Check. All SIR diagnostics must begin with the SIR Diagnostic System Check. The SIR Diagnostic System Check determines the following results:
^ Proper AIR BAG warning lamp operation
^ Ability of the SDM to communicate through the data link connector (DLC)
^ Existence of SIR diagnostic trouble codes (DTC)
2. Refer to the diagnostic table as directed by the SIR Diagnostic System Check. The diagnostic tables will help enable you to diagnose any SIR system malfunction. Bypassing these procedures may result in the following problems:
^ Extended diagnostic time
^ Incorrect diagnosis
^ Incorrect parts replacement
3. Repeat the SIR Diagnostic System Check after you perform any repair or diagnostic procedures. This will verify that you correctly performed the repair. This will also ensure that no other malfunctions exist.