GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Passenger Presence System Preload Test

The passenger presence system (PPS) consists of an electronic control module, a conductive based sensor mat, wiring harness, and PASSENGER AIR BAG ON/OFF indicators. The sensor mat is made up of several flexible conductive metal strips placed underneath the seat cushion trim. These sensor strips transmit and receive a low level electric field. The weight of the occupant sitting in the front passenger seat is measured as a change in current flow within the sensor mat. If the passenger seat bottom cushion, seat bottom trim, or heater pad has been serviced, reinstalled, or removed for any reason, the procedure below will check for any preloads on the PPS. A service replacement PPS module does not require an unlock procedure prior to an initial preload test.

Important: 

   • Before the PPS can be checked for preloads the front passenger seat must be completely empty of all items. The presence of any items on the front passenger seat will affect the calibration and operation of the PPS. When the preload test is perform, the instrument panel cluster (IPC) and dash lights will begin illuminating at varying intensity. This is normal operation during the preload test procedure and does not indicate additional system faults.
   • The Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle must be performed after successfully completing the preload test procedure to ensure the system is functioning properly.

Passenger Presence System Preload System Test

  1. Empty the front outboard passenger seat (this system is susceptible to conductive material).
  2. With the scan tool, perform the Preload Passenger Presence System procedure.
  3. Using the scan tool, check for DTC B0081 in history. If the test fails or DTC B0081 11 is current, confirm that there is no conductive material on the seat. If the test fails again, for heated seats, ensure that the sensor pad is on top of the heater element. Once the test successfully completes, cycle the ignition OFF.
  4. Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle after successfully completing the preload test procedure to ensure the system is functioning properly.