GM SIR

Dual Air Bag

System

Student Manual

GM SIR Dual Air Bag System

Activity 3
Electrical Subsystem

Performance Objectives:
The purpose of this activity is to understand the description of the SIR electrical subsystem
components including the Sensing and Diagnostic Module, Air Bag Indicator, Steering Wheel
Module Coil, Electronic Frontal Sensor, Inflatable Restraint Wiring Harnesses, and the Seat Belt
Switch.

Tools and Materials:

• ATech Model 1551 ATech GM SIR Dual Air Bag System Trainer

References:
• Service Manual Information

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Service Manual Information:
• Refer to pages 9-80 through 9-82 in the Service Manual Information.

Sensing and Diagnostic Module:

1. What is the Sensing and Diagnostic Module?
___________________________________________________________

2. What sensors do the Sensing and Diagnostic Module utilize?

a. _____________________________________________
b. _____________________________________________

3. How does the SDM use the information from the sensors?
___________________________________________________________

4. How long should the 23-volt loop be allowed to dissipate when disabling the SIR
system for servicing or rescue?
________________________________________________

Note that backup power supplies are used in almost every air bag system. The length of time the
backup power supply can hold a charge varies, depending on the year, make, and model of the
vehicle. Always refer to the appropriate service manual for proper service procedures.

Air Bag Indicator:

5. The instrument panel cluster (IPC) illuminates the air bag indicator when the
following occurs:
a _________________________________________________________________
b. _________________________________________________________________
c. _________________________________________________________________

Steering Wheel Module Coil:

6. What is the main purpose of the Steering Wheel Module Coil?
____________________________________________________________________

7. How many current-carrying coils does the Steering Wheel Module Coil consist of?
____________________________

Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS):

8. The EFS is an __________________ sensor and is not part of the deployment loop, but
instead provides an input to the SDM.

9. How does the SDM use the input firm the Electronic Frontal Sensor?
___________________________________________

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Inflatable Restraint Wiring Harnesses:
10. The inflatable restraint wiring harnesses connect what components:
a. ___________________________________________________
b. ___________________________________________________
c. ___________________________________________________
d. ___________________________________________________
e. ___________________________________________________

11. What color is used to identify the connectors of the SIR system?
___________________________________________________

12. What testing and repair procedures should be followed on the SIR system wiring
harness?
____________________________________________________

• Refer to page 9-21 in the Service Manual Information.

Seat Belt Switch:

13. Where is the seat belt switch located?

__________________________________

14. List the three conditions under which the fasten safety belt indicator and the tone
alarm will not operate.
a. _______________________________
b. _______________________________
c. _______________________________

Conclusion:

SIR electrical subsystem components include the Sensing and Discriminating Module (SDM),
Air Bag Indicator, Steering Wheel Module Coil, Electronic Frontal Sensor (EFS), Inflatable
Restraint Wiring Harnesses, and Seat Belt Switch. Each of these components contributes to the
operation of the SIR system. The SDM performs continuous diagnostic monitoring of these
components.

Complete the On-Trainer Worksheet at this time.

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 ON-TRAINER WORKSHEET
Activity 3

Component ID

• Refer to the ATech GM SIR Dual Air Bag System Trainer to answer the following questions.

1. Look closely at the IP Sensor. Identify any markings that you see and explain their
function.
_____________________________________________________________________

2. Is there a separate Backup Power Supply in this system? ______

Note that the Backup Power Supply is an integral part of the Sensing and Diagnostic Module in
this SIR System.

Set-Up:
This procedure assumes that the ATech GM SIR Dual Air Bag System is clear of codes. Verify
(or have your instructor verify) that there are no faults or codes in the system.

• Locate the power block in the lower center section of the trainer.
• Turn System Power ON. (Switch next to fuse block)

Figure 2. System Power Switch © ATech 1/11/08

• Wait 30 seconds. The Backup Power Supply needs a little time to charge up.
• Turn the Ignition Switch ON.

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 3. Describe the operation of the System Readiness Indicator.
________________________________________________________________

If the air bag system is operating properly, the lamp should come ON and then go OFF after
approximately 6 seconds.

• Turn Ignition OFF.

• Turn System Power OFF.

Conclusion:

During an accident, proper operation of the air bag system is critical. All of the electrical
components must work properly to insure the bag is deployed when needed. This level of
reliability requires special sensors, continuous system monitoring, and backup power.

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GM SIR Dual Air Bag System – Activity 3
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