GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

SIR RESTRAINT TELLTALE STAYS ON-REPLACE DERM

SUBJECT: INFLATABLE RESTRAINT TELLTALE STAYS ON (REPLACE DERM W/EXCHANGE T

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1990 E, K, V, C

Some 1990 Eldorados, Sevilles, DeVilles, Fleetwoods, Allantes, Toronados, Trofeos, Rivieras and Reattas equipped with Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) may exhibit the following condition: At key on the "Inflatable Restraint" telltale may turn and stay on without flashing for a period of time which may range from a few seconds to a few minutes. The lamp will then flash seven to nine times and go off indicating a return to normal operation.

Normal operation is for the light to flash seven to nine times after key on and then go off for the duration of the key on cycle.

The cause is a SIR Diagnostic Energy Reserve Module (DERM) which is affected by voltage and temperature. DERM's from date code 9298 to 9333 may exhibit the condition. Refer to Figure 1 to interpret the date code. The condition may occur more frequently in cold ambient temperatures. A BCM B333, loss of SIR data, may also be set.

To repair the condition, replace the DERM with an available exchange part from an authorized AC-Delco Service Centre.

CADILLAC:

--------- When BCM code B333 is current, (INFLATABLE RESTRAINT telltale on solid) Eldorados and Sevilles will also display the message, "SERVICE SUPPLEMENTAL INFLATABLE RESTRAINT" on the Driver Information Centre. Allantes will illuminate the CHECK INFO CENTRE telltale and display the message "SERVICE SUPPLEMENTAL INFLATABLE RESTRAINT" on the Driver Information Centre.

OLDSMOBILE:

---------- When BCM code B333 is current, (INFLATABLE RESTRAINT telltale on solid) Toronados and Trofeos will also display the message "SERVICE INFL REST" on the Message Centre.

BUICK:

----- When BCM code B333 is current, (INFLATABLE RESTRAINT telltale on solid) Rivieras and Reattas will also flash the ELECTRICAL PROBLEM telltale.

IMPORTANT:

- During the condition (INFLATABLE RESTRAINT telltale on) the DERM energy reserve is functional. The DERM can deploy the inflator in case of an accident which damages the battery but will not store SIR fault codes or crash data.

- Before replacing the DERM, refer to "Service Precautions" in Section 9J of the 1990 Service Information Manuals.

- After replacing the DERM, perform the SIR diagnostic system Section 9J of the 1990 check in Section 9J of 9J of the 1990 Service Information Manuals to assure that there are no other system problems which could cause an intermittent SIR light.


Object Number: 83361  Size: FS

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.