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Electrical - Engine Runs With Key OFF/Air Bag Lamp ON

TECHNICAL

Bulletin No.: 08-06-03-006B

Date: August 02, 2012

Subject: -Engine Running with Key Off, Continuous Run Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM), No Communication, Service Air Bag Light Illuminated, DTCs B1440, P0381 or P0650 (Install Diode to Solenoid/Relay)

Models:
2007-2013 Chevrolet Silverado 2500-3500 Series
2007-2013 GMC Sierra 2500-3500 Series

Supercede:
This bulletin is being revised to add model years. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 08-06-03-006A (Section 06 - Engine/Propulsion System).

Condition

Some customers may comment on the engine running for 10-15 seconds with the key off, and/or the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) MIL Lamp and Service Air Bag Message are illuminated.

Cause

These vehicles may be equipped with aftermarket equipment, i.e. a snow plow or a salt spreader system, that is controlled by a large solenoid or relay. When an electromechanical solenoid or relay is de-energized rapidly by a mechanical switch or semiconductor, the collapsing magnetic field produces a substantial transient voltage in its effort to disperse the stored energy and oppose the sudden change in current flow. These voltage spikes can occur at the positive terminal when the solenoid or relay is de-energized (keyed-off). If a solenoid or relay is wired onto the Run/Crank circuit of the vehicle to control aftermarket equipment, the spikes can be transmitted onto the circuit. The spikes can permanently damage the internal circuitry of the TCM and/or the SDM.

If the transmission control module (TCM) is damaged, it is possible for the TCM to pass retained accessory power onto the Run/Crank circuit keeping the engine control module (ECM) on until retained accessory power goes low.

If the sensing diagnostic module (SDM) is damaged, the SDM will not communicate, and it will illuminate the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) lamp and the Service Air Bag message.

Correction

Important
DO NOT replace the TCM or the SDM until the root cause of the condition has been identified to the solenoid/relay voltage spikes.

To prevent damage to any of the sensitive electronic components on the bussed circuit, the solenoid/relay MUST have the control circuit suppressed with a diode. The diode will prevent the voltage spikes from being transmitted onto the Run/Crank circuit.





Install a diode, P/N 12112422, across the coil of the solenoid. It is important that the striped end of the diode be connected to the positive terminal of the coil and the other end of the diode be connected to ground.





Important
Be sure to insulate the diode with heat shrink tubing before installing as shown in the picture above.

Notice
Some solenoids/relays may only have a positive post and will get their ground through their mounting bracket. In this case, the striped end of the diode is to be connected to the positive terminal and other end should be connected to the ground of the solenoid/relay.





Install a diode, P/N 12112422, across the coil of the relay. It is important that the striped end of the diode be connected to the positive terminal of the coil and the other end of the diode be connected to ground. Be sure to insulate the diode with heat shrink tubing before installing.

Parts Information





Warranty Information

This repair will not be covered under warranty due to the failure being caused by an aftermarket accessory.





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