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.

DTC Descriptors

DTC B1653: Driver Seat Position Sensor Assembly

Circuit/System Description

The seat position sensor circuit consists of the seat position sensor, seat position sensor - high and the seat position sensor - low circuits and the sensing and diagnostic module (SDM). The seat position sensor monitors seat position for the SDM. If the SDM detects a malfunction within the seat position sensor circuit, a DTC will be set.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition voltage is between 9-16 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

Any of the following conditions exist for 2 seconds:

B1653

    • The seat position sensor circuit is shorted.
    • The seat position sensor circuit is open.
    • Seat position sensor malfunction.
    • Left seat belt buckle malfunction.
    • SDM malfunction.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

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

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition for setting the DTC no longer exists.
    • A history DTC will clear once 100 malfunction-free ignition cycles have occurred.

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

Important: Refer to SIR Service Precautions .

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

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the SDM and the seat position sensor.
  2. Ignition ON, test for less than 1 volt between the signal circuit terminal 14 and ground.
  3. If greater than the specified range, repair the circuit for a short to voltage.
  4. Ignition ON, test for less than 1 volt between the low reference circuit terminal 13 and ground.
  5. If greater than the specified range, repair the circuit for a short to voltage.
  6. Test for infinite resistance between the signal circuit terminal 14 and ground.
  7. If less than infinite resistance, repair the circuit for a short to ground.
  8. Test for less than 1 ohm between the following signal circuit terminals.
  9. • Front inner seat belt assmbly -- driver terminal 1 and SDM harness connector terminal 14.
    • Seat position sensor terminal 2 and Front inner seat belt assmbly -- driver terminal 1.
    If greater than the specified range, repair the circuit for an open/high resistance.
  10. Test for less then 1 ohm between the following front end sensor low reference circuit terminals.
  11. • Front inner seat belt assmbly -- driver terminal 3 and SDM harness connector terminal 13.
    • Seat position sensor terminal 1 and Front inner seat belt assmbly -- driver terminal 3.
    If greater than the specified range, repair the circuit for an open/high resistance.
  12. If all circuits test normal, replace the seat position sensor.
  13. Rconnect all SIR components. Ignition ON, with a scan tool clear and check for DTC B1653.
  14. If the DTC returns and is current, replace the SDM.
  15. Reconnect all SIR components. Ignition ON, with a scan tool clear and check for DTC B1653.
  16. If the DTC returns and is current, replace the SDM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Inflatable Restraint Front End Sensor Replacement
    •  Inflatable Restraint Side Impact Sensor Replacement
    •  SIR/SRS Wiring Repairs
    •  Control Module References for SDM replacement, setup, and programming