GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

CAUTION:  Proper operation of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) 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 in a frontal collision or deployment of the air bag for conditions less severe than intended.

Important: 

   • You must replace all damaged Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) components. Damaged SRS component mounting points must be repaired or replaced.
   • Never use SRS components from another vehicle. You may use remanufactured parts obtained from an authorized dealer for SRS repairs.
   • Do not attempt to service the following components:
      - The supplemental restraint arming sensor
      - The supplemental restraint discriminating sensors
      - The supplemental restraint Diagnostic Energy Reserve Module (DERM)
      - The supplemental restraint steering wheel module coil
      - The supplemental restraint steering wheel inflator module
   • Verify the part number of the replacement inflator module. Some inflator modules look identical, but contain different internal components.
   • After a deployment, you must clear the SRS 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.

Accident With Deployment -- Component Replacement and Inspections

You must replace the following components after a frontal crash involving air bag deployment:

    • The supplemental 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 supplemental 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 supplemental restraint steering wheel module coil.

Refer to supplemental restraint steering wheel module coil in Steering Column Unit Repair in Section 3F4.

Accident With or Without Deployment -- Component Inspections

You must replace certain Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) 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

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) 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.