GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using the diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC B1620 : Electronic Control Unit Performance

Circuit/System Description

When the ignition switch is turned to ON, the sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) will perform turn-on test to diag-nose critical malfunctions within SDM itself.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition voltage is between 9-16 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The SDM does not implement diagnostic operation. In case of above, the wiring harness of SDM should be checked before replacing the SDM.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The SDM commands ON the AIR BAG warning lamp via serial data communications.
    • The SDM disables all deployments.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

The condition responsible for setting the DTC no longer exists and the scan tool Clear DTCs function is used.

Reference Information

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Circuit/System Testing

    Note: When removing connectors inspect for damage or corrosion. Damage or corrosion in the following requires repair or replacement of the affected component/connector.

       • The I/P module
       • The SDM module
       • The I/P wiring harness connector
       • The SDM wiring harness connector

  1. Ignition ON, use the scan tool to request SIR DTCs. Verify that DTC B1620 is set as current.
  2. If DTC B1620 was current replace the SDM.
  3. Ignition ON, use the scan tool to clear the DTCs.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for SDM replacement, setup, and programming