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

When the ignition is turned ON, the instrument panel cluster (IPC) flashes the air bag indicator 7 times for a bulb check. The inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) performs diagnostic tests on the SIR system during the bulb check. If any malfunction exists the SDM will request the IPC to illuminate the air bag indicator steady, via serial data. If a preexisting malfunction exists, the air bag indicator will illuminate steady immediately after the ignition is turned ON. If the ignition 1 voltage is outside of the normal operating voltage range 9-16 volts, the SDM will command the IPC to turn the air bag indicator ON with no DTCs present, then disables all deployment loops.

Diagnostic Aids

A DTC B1370 may set if the ignition 1 circuit is outside the 9-16 volts range.

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

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Verify SDM DTCs are not set.
  2. If any DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle.
  3. Ignition OFF, monitor the IPC, ignition ON. The SIR warning indicator should flash then turn OFF.
  4. If the SIR warning indicator continually flashes, program the SDM.
  5. Perform the Display Test in Instrument Panel Cluster/Special Functions. The Air Bag indicator should turn ON and OFF as commanded.
  6. If the air bag indicator does not illuminate as expected, replace the IPC.
  7. If all circuits test normal, replace the SDM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

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