Noticed air bag light while driving my 99 vert yesterday. Checked DIC, and code B0053C displayed.

Any suggestions where to start diagnostics appreciated. Thanks!

 

Good luck. Ive had this off and on....

 

This seems solid, though -- at least I can't clear the code.

Can any of the electrical gurus here provide any troubleshooting help?

 

From the manual:

DTC B0053
Circuit Description
The inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) contains a sensing device that converts vehicle velocity changes into an electrical signal. The SDM compares this electrical signal to a value stored in memory. When the generated signal exceeds the stored value, the SDM performs additional signal processing and compares the generated signals to values stored in memory. When two of the generated signals exceed the stored values, the SDM will cause current to flow through the inflator modules, deploying the air bags. DTC B0053 will set instead of DTC B0051 when a deployment occurs while an inflator circuit malfunction is present that could possibly result in a non-deployment situation in one or both inflator modules.

Conditions for Running the DTC
Ignition 1 Voltage is within the normal operating voltage range.

Conditions for Setting the DTC
The SDM detects a frontal crash of sufficient force to warrant deployment of the frontal air bags.
A deployment loop malfunction exists.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
The SDM commands the AIR BAG indicator ON.
The SDM records crash data.
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
DTC B0053 is a latched code which cannot be cleared. Replace the SDM after following the instructions in the diagnostic table.

Diagnostic Aids
DTC B0053 will be accompanied by another DTC. Repair the malfunction causing the other DTC(s) before installing a new SDM.

Step
Action
Yes
No

1
Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check-SIR?
Go to Step 2
Go to Diagnostic System Check - SIR

2
Turn OFF the ignition.
Inspect the vehicle for signs of inflator module deployment.
Does the vehicle show any signs of inflator module deployment?
Go to Step 5
Go to Step 3

3
Inspect the front of the vehicle and undercarriage for signs of impact/collision.

Does the vehicle show any signs of impact/collision?
Go to Step 5
Go to Step 4

4
Replace the SDM. Refer to Inflatable Restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?
Go to Step 6
--

5
Install a scan tool.
Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
With the scan tool request the SIR DTC display.
If a history DTC exists, refer to Diagnostic Aids for that specific DTC and diagnose the problem.
Replace components and perform inspections as required following an accident. Refer to Repairs and Inspections Required After a Collision .
Did you complete the appropriate inspections and necessary repairs?
Go to Step 6
--
6
Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC as specified in the supporting text.
Does the DTC reset?
Go to Step 2
System OK



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