GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC U1241 Lost Communication With Scan Tool

Circuit Description

The passenger presence system (PPS) monitors itself for faults and will set/flash DTCs if a fault is detected. The PPS communicates with the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) via non class 2 communications. When the SDM receives input from the PPS that a PPS fault has occurred, the SDM will request the instrument panel cluster (IPC) to illuminate the AIR BAG indicator located on the IPC. To determine what DTCs have been set by the PPS, the Tech 2 is used to command the SDM to request the PPS to flash the DTCs using the PASSENGER AIR BAG ON/OFF indicators located on the instrument panel. The Tech 2 sends a string of commands to the SDM that allows the SDM to communicate with the PPS module and initiate the flashing of the DTCs. When the Tech 2 has completed sending the commands, the PPS will begin flashing any current or history DTCs that the system has stored. When the SDM no longer receives commands from the Tech 2, the SDM mistakes this as a communication fault and sets DTC U1241. DTC U1241 will set when the Tech 2 is used to flash DTCs from the PPS or after the PPS has been rezeroed. DTC U1241 does not indicate a system malfunction and will not cause any warning indicators to illuminate. When DTC U1241 sets, cycle the ignition and use the scan tool to clear the code, no further diagnosis is necessary. For more detailed information concerning the PPS, refer to SIR System Description and Operation. For more detailed information concerning PPS flash code and rezeroing procedures, refer to Passenger Presence System Flash Code Procedures and Passenger Presence System Programming and Setup.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition voltage is between 9-16 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

DTC U1241 will set when the scan tool is used to flash DTCs from the PPS or after the PPS has been rezeroed.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

A scan tool CLEAR DTC command is issued.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

SIR Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

SIR System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information