GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Important: If the vehicle has been in a collision, refer to Repairs and Inspections Required After a Collision for additional information.

  1. From the drivers seat, turn the ignition switch ON. Verify proper operation of the seat belt reminder lamp with the belt buckled and unbuckled. Refer to Seat Belt System Description and Operation .
  2. Inspect the shoulder belt guide. Verify that the guide swivels freely, the seat belt webbing is seated flat in the guide slot, and that the webbing does not bind.
  3. Verify that the seat belt buckle faces inboard and is accessible.
  4. Verify that the seat belt retractor units are securely attached.
  5. Verify that the seat belt anchor bolts securely.
  6. Fully extend the seat belt webbing. Verify that no twists or tears exist in the webbing.
  7. Allow the seat belt webbing to retract. Verify that the webbing returns freely and completely back into the retractor.
  8. Snap the seat belt latch plate into the buckle.
  9. Tug sharply on the seat belt latch plate and the buckle. Verify that the buckle remains locked.
  10. Push the button on the buckle.
  11. • Verify that the seat belt latch plate releases easily from the buckle.
    •  Verify that the button returns to its original position.

Repeat the inspection procedure, steps 2-10, from the front passenger seat.

  1. Verify that the center seat belts are accessible.
  2. Verify that the center seat belts have no twists or tears in the webbing.
  3. Snap the center seat belt latch plate into the buckle.
  4. Sharply tug on the seat belt latch plate and the buckle. Verify that the seat belt latch plate and the buckle remain locked when tugged.
  5. Push the button on the buckle.
  6. • Verify that the seat belt latch plate releases easily from the buckle.
    •  Verify that the button returns to its original position.

Repeat the inspection procedure, steps 2-10, from the rear seats.

Repeat the center seat belt inspection procedure, steps 1-5, from the rear seat.

Emergency Locking Retractor Checks

Caution: Perform this test in an area clear of other vehicles or obstructions. Do not conduct this test on the open road. A large, empty parking lot is suitable. Failure to observe this precaution may result in damage to the vehicle and possible personal injury.

  1. Fasten the seat belts. Use an assistant when the retractor under test is not part of the driver seat belt.
  2. Accelerate the vehicle slowly to 16 km/h (10 mph) and apply the brakes firmly.
  3. Verify that the seat belt locks when braking firmly.
  4. If the belt does not lock, proceed with the following steps:
  5. 4.1. Remove the seat belt retractor assembly.
    4.2. Tilt the seat belt retractor slowly.

    Object Number: 157277  Size: SH
    4.3. Verify that the seat belt webbing can be pulled from the retractor at an inclination of 15 degrees or less. Verify that the seat belt webbing cannot be pulled from the retractor at an inclination of 45 degrees or more.
    4.4. If the seat belt retractor does not operate as described, replace the retractor assembly. Refer to the following procedures:
       •  Seat Belt Retractor Replacement - Left Front
       •  Seat Belt Retractor Replacement - Right Front
       •  Rear Seat Belt Retractor Replacement