What is a Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control module?
The Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control unit is the central safety unit in the vehicle, responsible for monitoring and activating the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). It detects sensor signals during a collision, precisely controls airbag deployment, and stores important crash data to ensure occupant safety. A malfunction often requires professional Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control unit repair.
This module, also known as the Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM), is the brain of your airbag system. It continuously monitors all relevant components, from sensors to the airbags themselves.
If a malfunction occurs, the airbag warning light in the cockpit will illuminate, requiring immediate diagnosis and possible Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control unit repair.
Why is the Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control module defective?
The Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control unit often malfunctions because it stores crash data after an accident, triggering a hard code, or because internal electronic components fail due to age. Such defects prevent the system from functioning properly and require a specialized reset service or a Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control unit repair.
After an impact, the control unit stores indelible "crash data" that deactivates the system. This protects the vehicle from accidental airbag deployment.
Communication errors or internal electronic failures can also cause the control unit to malfunction. A professional diagnostics at a workshop is essential to identify the exact fault and repair the airbag control unit.
Common error codes for Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control unit repair
During Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control module repair, specific error codes occur that directly indicate problems with the control module itself, not with sensors. These codes often signal crash data, communication failures, or a triggered airbag deployment, requiring a specialized reset or replacement of the module.
- **B1000** → Control unit communication error → The airbag ECU cannot establish a connection to other systems, often due to internal defects or wiring faults.
- **B0051** → Crash data storage / crash code in the control unit → The airbag control unit has logged crash data after an accident, which means that the warning light remains permanently active.
- **B0052** → Deployment Commanded (deployment command active) → The control unit has registered an airbag deployment and stored a "hard code" that cannot be erased using standard diagnostic tools.
These error codes are critical and indicate that the control unit needs to be repaired or replaced. Faulty airbag control units pose a significant safety risk and should be addressed immediately.
A specialized reset service can erase these "hard codes" and restore the control unit to full functionality, restoring safety. A precise diagnosis is the first step to a successful 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix control unit repair.
What part numbers are available for Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control unit repair?
For Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control unit repair, there are several exact OEM part numbers that are specific to this model and model year from GM/Pontiac. Correctly identifying these numbers is crucial for a successful repair or replacement, as compatibility and vehicle-specific programming must be ensured.
The primary OEM part numbers for the airbag control module for the 1988-1996 Pontiac Grand Prix include:
- **09391170** (OEM GM Pontiac, Airbag Computer Control Module)
- **09391870** (interchangeable to 09391170)
- **16199421** (OEM GM Pontiac, SRS Control Module for 1994-1996)
- **16161599** (interchangeable with 16199421, also for Oldsmobile Cutlass 1995-96)
- **10343542** (OEM GM Pontiac Airbag Computer Diagnostic Control Module, later models up to 2005)
- **12238300** (alternative to 10343542)
These numbers have been validated multiple times and refer directly to the airbag control module, not to sensors. It's important to match the existing part number of your defective module with the replacement part to ensure a correct Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control module repair.
Other manufacturers such as Bosch or Siemens do not produce directly corresponding control units for these specific OEM numbers. VIN-specific programming is often required at the dealer after a replacement or extensive repair of the Pontiac Grand Prix 1988-1996 airbag control unit.