What is a Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit?
The Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit is the central safety unit that activates all occupant restraint systems in the event of a crash. It continuously monitors crash sensors, stores important accident or fault data, and ensures the proper function of all airbag modules and seatbelt pretensioners in the vehicle to maximize occupant safety.
It's an SRS SDM (Sensing Diagnostic Module), also known as an airbag ECU or airbag controller. This module processes signals from crash sensors to deploy airbags and seatbelt pretensioners if necessary.
It also functions as an Event Data Recorder (EDR), storing relevant data about the accident. If errors occur, the airbag warning light on the dashboard illuminates continuously.
Why is the Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit defective?
The Saturn Vue XR airbag control module is often reported as defective because, after an accident, it stores crash data and specific error codes in its internal memory, which blocks function and requires repair or a reset of the module. Internal electronic defects can also be the cause.
After an accident, the module stores irreversible crash data in the EEPROM memory, preventing the system from being reactivated. This stored data must be erased (reset) or the module replaced for reuse.
A continuously illuminated airbag warning light is a clear sign of a malfunction or stored crash data. A professional reset is often part of the "Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit repair."
Common error codes for Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit repair
When diagnosing a defective Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit, specific B-codes may occur that directly indicate internal module problems, stored crash data, or communication malfunctions, necessitating a targeted "Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit repair." These codes are crucial for a precise diagnosis.
- B1000 → Control unit communication error → Problems with control unit communication.
- B0051 → Internal error in the airbag control unit → Crash data stored after an accident.
- B0053 → Airbag deployment with loop error → System problem during deployment.
- B0055 → Side airbag deployment commanded → Module has commanded side airbag deployment.
- B0056 → Passenger front airbag suppressed → Passenger front airbag suppression status.
- B0057 → Resistance in the belt pretensioner circuit out of range → Possible control unit fault in the belt pretensioner circuit.
- B0058 → High voltage in the belt pretensioner circuit / Open belt pretensioner circuit → Electrical problem in the belt pretensioner circuit.
What part numbers are available for the Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit repair?
For the "Saturn Vue XR Airbag Control Unit Repair," only specific GM OEM part numbers are verified, as replacement or supplier part numbers from other manufacturers do not exactly match this model. The correct part number is crucial for the compatibility of the airbag control unit.
- 22687196 → GM → Original OEM, often used for reset services.
- 22666175 → GM → Original OEM, described as "plug-and-play" compatible.
- 22687197 → GM → Original OEM, known as SRS Safety Airbag Sensor Module.
- 25865978 → GM → Original OEM, an Airbag Sensing and Diagnostic Module.
These part numbers are associated exclusively with the airbag control module (SRS), not with sensors or other modules. They are verified for Saturn Vue XR models.
How does the Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit repair work?
The "Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit repair" typically includes a reset service, which erases internal crash data and error codes from the EEPROM memory to restore the module to factory settings and thus make it fully functional again. This is often more cost-effective than purchasing a new one.
After an accident, the module must be reset or replaced because it stores crash data. This reset is performed by specialized workshops using EEPROM reprogramming.
After a reset service, the module is usually immediately ready for use again and, in most cases, requires no further vehicle-specific programming. Used modules without a reset, on the other hand, often require programming to the vehicle identification number (VIN).
Saturn Vue XR Airbag Control Unit Compatibility
The airbag control unit is specifically designed for Saturn Vue XR models from 2008 and 2009. It is crucial to match the exact part number of the original module to ensure full functionality and safety after a "Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit repair."
It fits engine variants such as the 2.4L I4, 3.5L V6, and 3.6L V6 (for the XR version). Due to different variants, a precise part number comparison is essential.
Only the exact matching module works perfectly in the vehicle and prevents further error codes in the system.
Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit installation location
The Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit is located centrally in the vehicle, usually below the dashboard or between the front seats. Before repairing or replacing the Saturn Vue XR airbag control unit, safety precautions such as disconnecting the vehicle's battery must be observed to prevent accidental deployment.
It has a multiple plug for power supply, data communication with other control units and signal inputs from the crash sensors.
The exact connector and installation position are model-specific and described in detail in the workshop manuals. Careful removal and reinstallation are crucial for the safety of the airbag system.