GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

DTC Descriptor

DTC B0036: Auxiliary Discriminating Sensor (ADS) Open, Missing, or Shorted to Battery

Diagnostic Fault Information

Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.

Circuit/System Description

When you first turn the ignition switch to the RUN position, the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) performs tests to diagnose critical malfunctions within itself. The SDM then measures the following circuits to ensure they are within their respective normal voltage ranges:

    • Ignition positive voltage
    • 23 VLR
    • Deployment loop voltages

The SDM then proceeds to CONTINUOUS MONITORING. The SDM contains a resistor network connected to 5 volts, ground, and to the SDM discriminating sensor signal input. The SDM monitors two front end discriminating sensors that are wired in parallel. The 1.0 K ohm resistor located in the RH inflatable restraint front end discriminating sensor is parallel to the normally open switches in both sensors and provides a parallel path to ground. This causes a specified percentage of voltage to appear at the SDM discriminating sensor signal input. The SDM monitors this voltage to detect shorts to power or an open discriminating sensor.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition voltage is between 9-16 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The SDM detects the voltage at the discriminating sensor signal input is greater than 3.65 volts for 500 milliseconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The SDM commands the AIR BAG indicator ON via serial data communications.
    • The SIR System is disabled and no deployments are allowed.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition responsible for setting the DTC no longer exists and the scan tool Clear DTCs function is used.
    • A history DTC will clear once 255 malfunction-free ignition cycles have occurred.

Diagnostic Aids

A broken or chafed wire in the inflatable restraint front end discriminating sensor circuits may cause an intermittent condition. Inspect CKT 2160 and CKT 2151 carefully for cutting or chafing.

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 front end discriminating sensor
   • The SDM module
   • The front end discriminating sensor wiring harness connector
   • The SDM wiring harness connector

  1. Ignition ON, if DTC B0036 is current, disconnect the front end discriminating sensor - right connector. Refer to front end discriminating sensor replacement in Repair Instructions for location of connector.
  2. Measure the front end discriminating sensor - right internal resistance. Typically 1.0 K ohm. If the resistance measures greater than 1.0 K ohm then replace the sensor.
  3. Remove the SDM connector. Refer to SDM replacement in Repair Instructions for connector location.
  4. Test the signal and low reference circuits between the SDM and front end discriminating sensor - right for a short to voltage or open/high resistance. Verify that a short to voltage or open/high resistance does not exist.
  5. If any of the above conditions are found, make the appropriate repair.
  6. Reconnect all SIR components. With the ignition ON, use the scan tool to clear the DTC then recheck for DTC.
  7. If DTC B0036 was current, replace the SDM.

Repair Instructions

    •  Inflatable Restraint Front End Discriminating Sensor Replacement
    •  Control Module References for SDM replacement, setup, and programming.