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 Descriptor

DTC B0053 : Deployment Commanded with Loop DTCs Present

Circuit/System Description

The inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) contains sensing devices that converts vehicle velocity changes to electrical signals. The SDM processes the generated electrical signals and compares them to values stored in memory. When the generated signals exceed the stored values, the SDM performs additional signal processing and compares the generated signals to signals stored in memory. When 2 of the generated signals exceed the stored values, the SDM will cause current to flow through the inflator modules, deploying the inflator modules. DTC B0053 will set along with DTC B0051 when a deployment occurs while a circuit malfunction is present in any one of the deployment loops.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition voltage is between 9-16 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • The SDM detects a frontal impact of sufficient force to warrant deployment of the frontal modules when a current SIR DTC is set.
    • The SDM detects a side impact of sufficient force to warrant deployment of a side impact module when a current SIR DTC is set.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The SDM requests the instrument panel cluster (IPC) to illuminate the AIR BAG indicator.
    • The SDM records crash data.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

DTC B0053 is a latched code. You cannot clear a latched code. Replace the SDM after following the instructions.

Diagnostic Aids

DTC B0053 will be accompanied by another DTC, other than DTC B1000 and DTC B0051. Repair the malfunction causing the other DTCs before installing a new SDM.

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

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, inspect the vehicle for signs of inflator module or pretensioner deployment. Verify that the vehicle does not show any signs of inflator deployment.
  2. If the vehicle displays any signs of inflator deployment go to Repairs and Inspections Required After a Collision .
  3. Verify DTC B0053 does not reset.
  4. If DTC B0053 is set then replace the SDM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  SIR/SRS Wiring Repairs
    •  Control Module References for SDM replacement, setup, and programming