Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Diagnostic Codes
Diagnostic Energy Reserve Module (DERM) maintains a history record (cycle codes and history codes) of all diagnostic codes detected since SIR codes were last cleared during service.
Cycle codes are faults that are presently detected during this (current) ignition cycle. Cycle codes are stored in Random Access Memory (RAM). History codes are all faults detected since last time history fault memory was cleared. History codes are stored in Electronically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM).
Flash code diagnostics cannot be used to diagnose SIR system. All cycle and history codes can only be retrieved or cleared using Saturn Scan Tool (Portable Diagnostic Tool) or equivalent. Portable Diagnostic Tool (PDT) is used to read cycle and history codes and clear all codes after a repair is completed. History Code 51 can be cleared for this (current) ignition on cycle, but will not appear until next ignition on cycle. PDT must be updated to communicate with SIR system with most current Service Stall System (SSS) software before it can be used for SIR diagnostics. To use PDT, connect it to ALDL connector and turn ignition switch to ON position. Follow instructions supplied by manufacturer.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.