Important:
• You must replace all damaged SIR components. Damaged SIR component
mounting points must be repaired or replaced. • Never use SIR components from another vehicle. You may use re-manufactured
parts obtained from an authorized GM dealer for SIR repairs. • Do not attempt to service the following components: - The inflatable restraint arming sensor - The inflatable restraint discriminating sensors - The inflatable restraint Diagnostic Energy Reserve Module (DERM) - The inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil - The inflatable restraint steering wheel inflator module • Verify the part number of the replacement inflator module. Some
GM inflator modules look identical, but contain different internal components. • After a deployment, you must clear the SIR diagnostic trouble
codes using the scan tool Clear Codes command. This must be done in order
to cause the AIR BAG warning lamp to go off.
CAUTION: Proper operation of the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) sensing system requires that any repairs to the vehicle structure return the vehicle structure to the original production configuration. Not properly repairing the vehicle structure could cause non-deployment of the air bag(s) in a frontal collision or deployment of the air bag(s) for conditions less severe than intended.
Accident With Deployment -- Component Replacement and Inspections
You must replace the following components after a frontal crash involving air bag deployment:
| • | The inflatable restraint steering wheel inflator module |
| • | The sensors in the area of the accident damage |
Important: Refer to the Sensor Replacement Guidelines below for important information on sensor replacement in both deployment and non-deployment crashes.
Inspect the inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil wiring and connector for any signs of scorching, melting, or damage due to excessive heat. You must replace a damaged inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil.
Refer to inflatable restraint steering wheel module coil in Steering Column Unit Repair in Section 3F4 or 3F5.
Accident With or Without Deployment -- Component Inspections
You must replace certain SIR and restraint system components after any crash, whether deployment occurs or not. Dimensionally inspect the steering column. Refer to Inspections Required After An Accident. Inspect all of the sensors in the area of accident damage.
Important: Refer to the Sensor Replacement Guidelines below for important information on sensor replacement in both deployment and non-deployment crashes.
Inspect the knee bolster and the knee bolster mounting points for any distortion, bending, cracking, or other damage. Inspect the I/P steering column reinforcement plate for any distortion, bending, cracking, or other damage. Inspect the I/P braces for any distortion, bending, cracking, or other damage. Inspect the seat belts and the seat belt mounting points.
Sensor Replacement Guidelines
SIR sensor replacement policy requires replacement of the sensors in the area of accident damage only. The area of accident damage is defined as any area of the vehicle found in the following conditions:
| • | Crushed |
| • | Bent |
| • | Damaged in any way |
In a significant front end collision in which the forward portions of the vehicle have contacted another vehicle, or a stationary object, a sensor on the front of the vehicle, such as the radiator tie bar requires replacement.
Sensors in the area of accident damage must be replaced. Do not attempt to determine the condition of the sensor. You must always replace a sensor in the area of accident damage, whether the inflator module deploys or not.
