GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

CAUTION: Be careful when you handle a sensing and diagnostic module (SDM). Do not strike or jolt the SDM. Before applying power to the SDM:

   • Remove any dirt, grease, etc. from the mounting surface
   • Position the SDM horizontally on the mounting surface
   • Point the arrow on the SDM toward the front of the vehicle
   • Tighten all of the SDM fasteners and SDM bracket fasteners to the specified torque value
Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause air bag deployment, personal injury, or unnecessary SIR system repairs.

Caution: If any water enters the vehicle's interior up to the level of the carpet or higher and soaks the carpet, the sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) and the SDM harness connector may need to be replaced. The SDM could be activated when powered, which could cause deployment of the air bag(s) and result in personal injury. Before attempting these procedures, the SIR system must be disabled. Refer to Disabling the SIR System.

With the ignition OFF, inspect the SDM mounting area, including the carpet. If any significant soaking or evidence of significant soaking is detected, you must perform the following tasks:

  1. Remove all water.
  2. Repair the water damage.
  3. Replace the SDM harness connector.
  4. Replace the SDM.
Failure to follow these tasks could result in possible air bag deployment, personal injury, or otherwise unneeded SIR system repairs.

Removal Procedure

Caution: This vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause the following conditions:

   • Air bag deployment
   • Personal injury
   • Unnecessary SIR system repairs
In order to avoid the above conditions, observe the following guidelines:
   • Refer to SIR Component Views in order to determine if you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring.
   • If you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring, disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System.

  1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System .
  2. Remove the drivers seat. Refer to Bench Seat Replacement or Split Bench Seat Replacement or Front Seat Replacement - Bucket in Seats.
  3. Remove the carpet retaining sill trim molding -- LH, Refer to Door Sill Plate Replacement in Interior Trim.
  4. Fold back the carpet to access the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM).
  5. Remove the connector position assurance (2) from the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) harness connector.

  6. Object Number: 388339  Size: SH
  7. Disconnect the SDM harness connector (1) from the SDM (3).
  8. Remove the SDM mounting fasteners.
  9. Remove the SDM (3) from the vehicle.
  10. Important: The following repair procedures should only be used in the event that the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) mounting studs and/or fasteners are damaged to the extent that the SDM may no longer be properly mounted.

  11. Repair the fasteners using the following procedure:
  12. 9.1. Remove the stripped nut and discard the nut.
    9.2. Drill out the weld spots to the weld stud from the floor pan side, then remove and discard the stud.
    9.3. Condition the floor panel attaching surface where the new stud is to be installed.
    9.4. Install new weld stud GM P/N 115115602 and clamp the weld stud.
    9.5. Migweld the stud at the drilled holes from above or below the floor pan (as required).
    9.6. Apply body sealer GM P/N 9984248 around any exposed openings.
    9.7. Install a new fastener GM P/N 11515933.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 388339  Size: SH
  1. Install the SDM (3) to the vehicle.
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the SDM mounting fasteners.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten fasteners to 12 N·m (106 lb in).

  5. Install the SDM harness connector (1) to the SDM.
  6. Install the connector position assurance (2) to the SDM harness connector.
  7. Position the carpet to cover the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM).
  8. Install the carpet retaining sill trim molding -- LH. Refer to Door Sill Plate Replacement in Interior Trim.
  9. Install the driver seat. Refer to one of the following in Seats:
  10. •  Bench Seat Replacement
    •  Split Bench Seat Replacement
    •  Front Seat Replacement - Bucket
  11. Enable the SIR system. Refer to Enabling the SIR System .