DTC 51

Circuit Description:
The Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) contains a sensing device which converts vehicle velocity changes to an electrical signal. The electrical signal generated is processed by the SDM and then compared to a value stored in memory. When the generated signal exceeds the stored value the SDM will cause current to flow through the air bag assembly deploying the air bags and causing Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) 51 to set.

DTC Will Set When:
The SDM detects a frontal crash, up to 30 degrees off the centerline of the vehicle, of sufficient force to warrant deployment of the air bags.

Action Taken:
SDM turns "ON" the "AIR BAG" warning lamp records "Crash Data", and sets a diagnostic trouble code.

DTC Will Clear When:
The SDM is replaced.

DTC Chart Test Description:
Number(s) below refer to step number(s) on the diagnostic chart:
2. If air bag assembly (s) has not deployed, DTC 51 may have falsely set.
3. If DTC 51 has set with no signs of frontal impact, the diagnostic trouble code has falsely set.

Steps 1 - 3:

DTC 51 Deployment Event Commanded

WARNING: DURING SERVICE PROCEDURES. BE VERY CAREFUL WHEN HANDLING A SENSING AND DIAGNOSTIC MODULE (SDM). NEVER STRIKE OR JAR THE SDM.. NEVER POWER UP THE SRS IF THE SDM IS NOT PROPERLY INSTALLED ON THE VEHICLE. ALL SDM AND MOUNTING BRACKET FASTENERS MUST BE CAREFULLY TORQUED AND THE ARROW MUST BE POINTING TOWARD THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE TO ENSURE PROPER OPERATION OF THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS). THE SDM IF NOT PROPERLY ATTACHED TO THE VEHICLE MAY DEPLOY THE AIRBAG (WHICH MAY CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY) IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENTAL POWER UP TO THE SRS.