General Precautions

CAUTION: This vehicle has a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System. Refer to the SIR Component and Wiring Location view in order to determine whether YOU are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring. When you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring. Failure to follow the CAUTIONS could cause air bag deployment, personal injury, or otherwise unneeded SIR system repairs.

NOTE: The following are general precautions which should be observed when servicing the Antilock Brake System and/or other vehicle systems. Failure to observe these precautions may result in Antilock Brake System damage.
- Before performing electric welding procedures, unplug the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) harness connector and the brake pressure modulator valve assembly connector.

- Always carefully note the routing, position, mounting and location of ABS wiring, connectors, clips, brackets, etc. Antilock components are extremely sensitive to (Electromagnetic Interference) (EMI). Proper mounting is critical when servicing ABS components.

- Do not use a quick charger for engine starting or for battery charging if the battery is still connected to the vehicle's electrical system. Failure to observe this precaution may cause the brake fuse to open or cause serious damage to other electrical components. Always disconnect the battery negative cable when charging a battery.

- Never disconnect the battery from the electrical system with the engine running.

- When disconnecting EBCM connector, the ignition switch must be in the OFF position.

- Do not hang the suspension components by the wheel speed sensor cables, cable damage may result.

- Do not force the wheel speed sensors into place. The sensors are to be pushed in by hand only.

- During painting work, the EBCM may be subjected to a maximum temperature of 95�C (203�F) for brief periods and a maximum of 85�C (184�F) for lengthy periods (about two hours).
- When filling the master cylinder, use only Supreme 11 (GM P/N 12377967) or equivalent DOT 3 brake fluid. Do not use a container which has been used for petroleum based fluids, or a container which is wet with water. Petroleum based fluids will cause swelling and distortion of rubber parts in the hydraulic brake system, and water will mix with brake fluid, lowering the boiling point. Keep all fluid containers capped to prevent contamination.

- After replacement of the brake pressure modulator valve, EBCM/EBTCM, wheel speed sensors, wiring harness or other work involving the ABS system, the entire ABS system must be checked using the scan tool diagnostic tester. Refer to Diagnosis in this section. The above precautions are not exhaustive and are to be followed when working on an ABS equipped vehicle. Become familiar with the ABS and how it may be interrelated to other components on the vehicle when performing service work.

- When installing the ABS wiring harness, make sure that the ignition is off and that all connectors are securely connected. This will prevent damage to system components, and prevent system malfunctions.

- Always connect or disconnect the wiring harness connector from the EBCM with the ignition switch in the OFF position. Failure to observe this precaution could result in damage to the EBCM.

- The use of rubber hoses or parts other than those specified for the Antilock Brake System (ABS) may lead to functional problems requiring replacement of the hydraulic parts. Replace all components included in repair kits used to service this system. Lubricate rubber parts with clean, fresh, approved brake fluid to ease assembly. Do not use lubricated shop air on brake parts, as damage to rubber components may result. If any hydraulic component is removed or brake line disconnected, it may be necessary to bleed all or part of the brake system. The fastener tightening specifications listed are for dry, unlubricated fasteners.

- DOT 5 silicone brake fluid should never be used in the ABS Brake System. Excessive wear of brake components and other conditions can occur from using DOT 5 silicone brake fluid.

- Always use the correct fastener in the proper location. When you replace a fastener, use ONLY the exact part number for that application. General Motors will call out those fasteners that require a replacement after removal. General Motors will also call out the fasteners that require thread lockers or thread sealant. UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, do not use supplemental coatings (paints, greases, or other corrosion inhibitors) on threaded fasteners or fastener joint interfaces. Generally, such coatings adversely affect the fastener torque and joint clamping force, and may damage the fastener. When you install fasteners, use the correct tightening sequence and specifications. Following these instructions can help avoid damage to parts and systems.

- Do not touch the electrical connections and pins, or allow them to come in contact with brake fluid, as this will damage the EBCM.