AirBag Module programing-Need Experts
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 275
Likes: 14
From: Gahanna, Ohio
AirBag Module programing-Need Experts
Hey guys, have a question about the C5 airbag modules. I bought a 01 coupe that had the airbag on pass side deployed. I replaced it, and on the advice of a forum member here I bought a used module (did not do my homework) threw THE ORIGINAL AWAY and installed the used one. The light comes on and codes say it is not sync'd with the BCM. Others had this issue too but I am a bit confused on the real fix to this.
From pouring over the net it appears my only recourse is to buy a brand new module and then go to a dealership to see if they can program everything together. That appears to be the only option. Am I correct in this assumption or is there a simpler way I missed?
I am only wanting some expert help in finding a true solution to this dilemma, can it be done on my own or will I need the dealership or even a body shop to do it. Thanks for your help.
From pouring over the net it appears my only recourse is to buy a brand new module and then go to a dealership to see if they can program everything together. That appears to be the only option. Am I correct in this assumption or is there a simpler way I missed?
I am only wanting some expert help in finding a true solution to this dilemma, can it be done on my own or will I need the dealership or even a body shop to do it. Thanks for your help.
Last edited by Ahnenerbe; Jun 12, 2019 at 01:26 PM.
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 15,615
Likes: 4,062
From: Cape Coral, Florida
If there are 2 parts in my car that I know MUST work correctly are my airbags...a little skeptical about a "used" one....you don't have to go to a dealership and 99% of body shops don't know how to program it anyway...call them and ask what mobile "diagnostic and programming" guy they use in their shop !!....where are you located ?????
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 1,844
Likes: 375
From: San Jose, CA
This may not be the advice you were looking for, but airbags are one of the few things that I will absolutely take to a dealer. Let them handle the complexity, the safety, and frankly, the liability. I'm cool with internal combustion, but I don't much like dealing with very aggressive external combustion near my face. 
(yeah, airbags don't really work by combustion, but I just wanted to make the joke.)
(yeah, airbags don't really work by combustion, but I just wanted to make the joke.)
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Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 996
Likes: 306
From: Southern Norway , Europe
I have a Tech 2 and know how to change RPO's but I have not seen any procedures on how to do when you replace a airbag module .
Do one change data in the SDM or the BCM ?
If you add a link to this info or more detailed info I would appreciate it very much
Do one change data in the SDM or the BCM ?
If you add a link to this info or more detailed info I would appreciate it very much
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 15,615
Likes: 4,062
From: Cape Coral, Florida
To program some of these modules you have to buy a subscription at the AC Delco website...a 3 day I think is still the shortest one you can buy...this video may help !!...also a battery “maintainer” is essential !!
Last edited by C5 Diag; Jun 13, 2019 at 08:23 AM.
