General Service Instructions

CAUTION: When you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring, you must disable the SIR system. Refer to Air Bag(s) Arming and Disarming. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause air bag deployment, personal injury, or unnecessary SIR system repairs.

The inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) maintains a reserved energy supply. The reserved energy supply provides deployment power for the air bags. Deployment power is available for as much as 1 minute after disconnecting the vehicle power. Disabling the SIR system prevents deployment of the air bags from the reserved energy supply.

The following are general service instructions which must be followed in order to properly repair the vehicle and return it to its original integrity:
^ Do not expose the inflator modules to temperatures above 65°C (150°F).

^ Verify the correct replacement part number. Do not substitute a component from a different vehicle.

^ Service these components by replacement only. Do not repair any of the following components:
- The Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)
- The Inflatable Restraint Instrument Panel (IP) Module
- The Inflatable Restraint IP Module Switch
- The Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module
- The Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Coil
- The Inflatable Restraint Front End Discriminating Sensor

^ Use only original GM replacement parts available from your authorized GM dealer. Do not use salvaged parts for repairs to the SIR system.

^ Discard any of the following components if the components have been dropped from a height of 91 centimeters (3 ft) or greater.
- The Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)
- The Inflatable Restraint IP Module
- The Inflatable Restraint IP Module Switch
- The Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module
- The Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Coil
- The Inflatable Restraint Front End Discriminating Sensor

^ When you replace the SDM, verify that the following conditions are met:
- The mounting surface is clean.
- The arrow on the module points toward the front of the vehicle.
- The module is flat on the mounting surface, parallel to the vehicle datum line.
- The module fasteners are installed and tightened as specified.

^ In order to avoid setting false diagnostic trouble codes, only apply power to the SIR system when one of the following two conditions is met:
- All SIR system components are properly mounted and electrically connected.
- A diagnostic procedure directs you to apply power.

^ Begin diagnosis of malfunctions with the SIR Diagnostic System Check. Perform the SIR Diagnostic System Check in order to verify the following:
- The proper operation of the AIR BAG warning lamp.
- Communication with the SDM through the serial data line.
- The presence or absence of diagnostic trouble codes.
- Whether additional diagnosis is required and where the information resides.
Not beginning with the SIR Diagnostic System Check could cause the following:
- Extended diagnostic time
- Incorrect diagnosis
- Unneeded parts replacement