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 Descriptors

DTC B1653: Driver Seat Position Sensor Assembly

Circuit/System Description

The seat position sensor circuit consists of the seat position sensor, seat position sensor - high and the seat position sensor - low circuits and the sensing and diagnostic module (SDM). The seat position sensor monitors seat position for the SDM. If the SDM detects a malfunction within the seat position sensor circuit, a DTC will be set.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition voltage is between 9-16 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

Any of the following conditions exist for 2 seconds:

B1653

    • The seat position sensor circuit is shorted.
    • The seat position sensor circuit is open.
    • Seat position sensor malfunction.
    • Left seat belt buckle malfunction.
    • SDM malfunction.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The SDM commands the AIR BAG indicator ON.
    • The SIR System is disabled and no deployments are allowed.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition for setting the DTC no longer exists.
    • A history DTC will clear once 100 malfunction-free ignition cycles have occurred.

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

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information.

Circuit/System Testing

Important: Refer to SIR Service Precautions .

When removing connectors, inspect for damage or corrosion. Damage or corrosion in the following requires repair or replacement of the affected component/connector:

   • The front end sensor
   • The SDM module
   • The front end sensor wiring harness connector
   • The SDM wiring harness connector

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the SDM and the seat position sensor.
  2. Ignition ON, test for less than 1 volt between the signal circuit terminal 14 and ground.
  3. ⇒If greater than the specified range, repair the circuit for a short to voltage.
  4. Ignition ON, test for less than 1 volt between the low reference circuit terminal 13 and ground.
  5. ⇒If greater than the specified range, repair the circuit for a short to voltage.
  6. Test for infinite resistance between the signal circuit terminal 14 and ground.
  7. ⇒If less than infinite resistance, repair the circuit for a short to ground.
  8. Test for less than 1 ohm between the following signal circuit terminals.
  9. • Front inner seat belt assmbly -- driver terminal 1 and SDM harness connector terminal 14.
    • Seat position sensor terminal 2 and Front inner seat belt assmbly -- driver terminal 1.
    ⇒If greater than the specified range, repair the circuit for an open/high resistance.
  10. Test for less then 1 ohm between the following front end sensor low reference circuit terminals.
  11. • Front inner seat belt assmbly -- driver terminal 3 and SDM harness connector terminal 13.
    • Seat position sensor terminal 1 and Front inner seat belt assmbly -- driver terminal 3.
    ⇒If greater than the specified range, repair the circuit for an open/high resistance.
  12. If all circuits test normal, replace the seat position sensor.
  13. Rconnect all SIR components. Ignition ON, with a scan tool clear and check for DTC B1653.
  14. ⇒If the DTC returns and is current, replace the SDM.
  15. Reconnect all SIR components. Ignition ON, with a scan tool clear and check for DTC B1653.
  16. ⇒If the DTC returns and is current, replace the SDM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Inflatable Restraint Front End Sensor Replacement
    •  Inflatable Restraint Side Impact Sensor Replacement
    •  SIR/SRS Wiring Repairs
    •  Control Module References for SDM replacement, setup, and programming