Subject: Information on Passenger Occupant Sensing System Concerns with Custom Upholstery, Accessory Seat Heaters or Other Comfort Enhancing Devices #06-08-50-009 - (08/17/2006)

Models: 2007 and Prior GM Cars and Trucks with Passenger Occupant Sensing System
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Concerns About Safety and Alterations to the Front Passenger Seat
The front passenger seat in many GM vehicles is equipped with an occupant detection sensor. These sensors control the mode of the Passenger Supplemental Inflatable Restraint System (Air Bag). The intent is to only activate the passenger air bag during a collision in which a passenger is present. In order for this system to function properly, calibrated sensors are used in the seat that rely on direct pressure from the weight of the occupant. Any object that obstructs this direct pressure or distributes the weight of the passenger differently may prevent the seat sensor from properly determining the presence of an occupant.

Aftermarket Seat Heaters, Custom Upholstery, and Comfort Enhancing Pads or Devices
Many types of aftermarket accessories are available to customers, upfitting shops, and dealers. Some of these devices sit on top of, or are Velcro® strapped to the seat while others such as seat heaters are installed under the seat fabric. Additionally, seat covers made of leather or other materials may have additional padding installed that could prevent the Passenger Occupant Sensing System from functioning properly. Never alter the vehicle seats. Never use additional pads or devices that are oversized or have rigid frames that may transfer the weight of a passenger to the bolster area of the seat cushion, as this may prevent proper air bag deployment.

Caution: Calibrated sensors are used in the seat that rely on direct pressure from the weight of the occupant. Any object that obstructs this direct pressure or distributes the weight of the passenger differently may prevent the seat sensor from properly determining the presence of an occupant.

Caution: If alterations are suspected check the I/P, roof console or inside mirror locations for the passenger air bag indicator display. Confirm that when sitting in the passenger seat, the display switches from air bag OFF to ON. Never ride in the front passenger seat of a vehicle that indicates improper air bag status.