Thread: Airbag and ABS codes?

So I just picked up a 1997 GTP (as I mentioned in other threads.)

I have the air bag and the ABS light on.

I have a code reader that can read SRS and ABS codes but when I try to read the codes it can't connect to either the ABS or SRS module. It reads the extended codes and scans the ECU just fine, just not the antilock nor airbag codes.

I know this code reader works, I tried it on my 09 Ranger and it was able to tell me why my ABS light came on the other day.

I've checked the 4 fuses related to SRS/ABS with an ohmmeter and they all test fine. I did notice though that the fuse tabs on the fuses themselves were a bit discolored.

I've also tried the app mentioned in another thread with my ELM adapter and it can't read them either.

I don't have a factory service manual for the car yet, is 1997 a strange year that needs a specific tool to read these codes? I know this car has had a wheel bearing replaced a year or so ago, and the light came on around then (that's what the PO told me.)

For the ABS light, time to check the wiring at the hubs as those are a known issue, especially the fronts. Make sure the harness that run along the control arm isn't damaged and then check both plug ends (the hub and harness side) for any corrosion.

Not sure on the SRS light. Could be the clockspring in the steering wheel. You would have to look up that code reader and see if it reads ABS and SRS codes from a 97 GTP. 09 Ranger is likely a totally different system.

Oh, I tried it on the Ranger just to make sure the code reader wasn't FUBAR. I figured they'd be different. I've tried a couple different readers now and none will read the ABS/SRS codes.

I always thought that a GM Tech II was needed to read those codes. Never really looked into any aftermarket solution.

Ahh, that makes sense. This'll get put on the back burner for now. I see from a quick Google there's clones of the TechII, I'll look into that. I don't even know how much the dealer will charge me to scan the codes... it's likely going to be cheaper to buy if I have to do it a few times.

I suppose it'll be the same for the SRS codes.

Thanks all!

So the dealer wanted $170 to read the codes. I bought the clone scan tool, and it just arrived today. It's ginormous! Tomorrow I'll try to read the codes on the car. The tool boots up and everything though.

With shipping and exchange the tool cost me around $400, but I'll need it to read codes a few times for sure just to fix the problems it already has, so it'll pay for itself quickly...

So I got around to reading the codes.

In the ABS history there's a ton of codes for the right front ABS sensor. Speed sensor =0, erratic readings, and finally a sensor open or shorted. There was a couple codes in the history for the right rear wheel but it's no longer listed as a current code. I knew the PO had a wheel bearing changed and it was that right front one (about 2 years ago he said.) The ABS light came on about two months before I bought it and shortly after that the fuel pump quit, he had it repaired and it sat there until I bought it. That should be an easier fix, just have to test the wiring.

For the airbag code... it came up with a B1015 "SIR 15 Current" on which when I googled indicated a high resistance reading somewhere. Oddly enough when I started the car the SRS light was out again... I cleared the code and will see if that one comes back. I found a TSB on that code but the part # that's supposed to be replaced is no longer available for purchase. Dunno what I'm going to do here, probably just live with it or wait until the SRS light burns out?

Originally Posted by danf

I found a TSB on that code but the part # that's supposed to be replaced is no longer available for purchase. Dunno what I'm going to do here, probably just live with it or wait until the SRS light burns out?

Curious what part it calls to replace or add?

Well, I can't copy/paste the bulletin but this is what it says (ignore any typos ):

Bulletin No: 83-90-10

Subject: Air Bag Warning light on, DTC B1015 Set (replace Jumper Harness)

Models: [note only putting GP relevant info here] 1997-98 Grand Prix built prior to WF293247 (my car is a VFxxxxxx number so it sounds like it applies)

Cause: High resistance in the jumper harness connectors may set a DTS B1015 and/or illuminate the air bag warning light.

Correction: New specific wiring jumper harnesses have been released. Pontiac PN# 16758256

Procedure:
1. remove the srs module
2. replace the new wiring harness, previously the harness was part of the inflator module and not replaceable
3. reinstall the srs module

Update to the ABS issue on my passenger side: Took the wheel off. Unplugged the sensor. It's resistance values are OK, and it seems to generate voltage when spinning the hub.

I followed the connector back up to above the oil filter and found a plug. I unplugged it there and snaked it out and tested the wires, they both are fine! ???? I was expecting a broken wire. I even tested resistance as I flexed the harness every inch or so, wire is fine.

Plugged it back in the the ABS sensor, tried testing the harness from the end I unplugged above the oil filter: open circuit. Unplugged it again, tested the ABS sensor and it's fine.

The connection is broken in the weatherpack plug itself. On further inspection I noticed the rubber boot missing. The pins are fine with no corrosion. I didn't have a rubber boot/seal around for the weatherpack so I ordered a repair harness. I'm thinking that the seal that is missing on the weatherpack connector helps locate and keeps the pins in contact.

What a weird ass problem.