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.

Circuit/System Description

The PASSENGER AIR BAG ON/OFF indicators are used to notify the driver when the passenger presence system (PPS) has enabled or disabled the instrument panel (I/P) inflator module. When the ignition is turned ON, the PPS module is supplied with voltage and commands both PASSENGER AIR BAG ON/OFF indicators ON for 5 seconds; then the PPS module conducts tests on the PPS components and circuits while both PASSENGER AIR BAG ON/OFF indicators are ON. If no malfunctions are detected, the PPS module will turn the PASSENGER AIR BAG indicator ON or OFF, depending on the status of the PPS. If a malfunction is detected, the PPS module will store a diagnostic trouble code (DTC), default the PPS to the OFF state, and communicate with the SDM that a DTC has been set. The SDM will request the instrument panel cluster (IPC) to turn the AIR BAG indicator ON to notify the driver of a PPS malfunction.

Diagnostic Aids

A history DTC maybe caused by an intermittent short or open in the ignition 1 circuit for the passenger AIR BAG ON/OFF indicator.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

SIR Schematics

Connector End View Reference

SIR Connector End Views

Electrical Information Reference

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

Circuit/System Testing

    Important: When removing connectors inspect for damage or corrosion. Damage or corrosion in the following requires repair or replacement of the affected component/connector.

       •  The Passenger AIR BAG ON/OFF indicator
       • The PPS module
       • The Passenger AIR BAG ON/OFF indicator wiring harness connector
       • The PPS wiring harness connector

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the PPS module connector located under the passenger seat.
  2. Disconnect the Passenger AIR BAG ON/OFF Indicator connector.
  3. Test the Passenger AIR BAG ON/OFF indicator ignition 1 voltage circuit for a short to ground, a high resistance, or an open. Verify that a short to ground, a high resistance, or an open does not exist.
  4. If any of the above conditions are found make the appropriate repair.
  5. Test both ON and OFF indicator control circuits between the Passenger AIR BAG ON/OFF indicator and the PPS for a short to voltage, high resistance, or an open. Verify that a short to voltage, a high resistance, or an open does not exist.
  6. If any of the above conditions are found make the appropriate repair.
  7. Reconnect the PPS connector then turn the ignition ON, engine OFF. Then connect a test lamp between the ignition 1 voltage circuit and Passenger Air Bag OFF indicator control circuit on the Passenger AIR BAG ON/OFF indicator connector. With the passenger front seat empty verify the test lamp illuminate.
  8. If test lamp does not illuminate replace the PPS.
    If test lamp illuminate replace the Passenger AIR BAG ON/OFF Indicator .

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  SIR/SRS Wiring Repairs
    •  Control Module References for PPS replacement, setup, and programming