Oldsmobile Delta 88 Airbag Question

Airbag Problem with my 1998 Olds Delta 88. Question = Is there a separate sensor for the passenger side airbag on my 1998 Oldsmobile 88? In other words, if nobody is in the passenger seat does the dashboard airbag deploy anyway in an accident? Thanks.

Answer: Unlike on todays newer AIRBAG systems, your car does not have a separate circuit to determine if an occupant is in the passenger seat. Anytime time there is a force sufficient to warrant airbag deployment, both airbags will deploy.

oldsmobile cutlass

Download Our Ebook

Fuel Economy, Hybrids & Electric, Car Repairs, Recalls And More.

This is assuming the system is functioning properly. If there were a malfunction, the warning light should be on the dash and have stored Airbag Trouble Codes. The module records data and system status before and after airbag deployment.

VISITOR:And I assume disabling the passenger side in some way, even though I am always alone in the car as it's driver, is illegal? I've heard permission has to be obtained by the DOT or some bureaucratic outfit. Thanks for the reply.

Answer:Yes that is correct.


Problem with my 1988 olds delta 88. Battery new alternator checked was fine. Question: my car is dead when you turn the key you get nothing. I bought a new battery but it did nothing. I had the alternator checked it was fine. I cleaned the cables still nothing the lights horn radio work fine.

ANSWER: Well, there are several things that can cause this no crank condition. First step is to check if you have power at the purple wires on the starter when trying to crank it over. If you do, then the starter is bad. If you do not, then a possible park / neutral switch failure.

The supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) system supplements the protection offered by the occupant seat belt system. The SIR system has several inflator modules located throughout the vehicle.

Each inflator module has a deployment loop that is controlled by the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM), which is mounted inside of the vehicle. The SDM determines the severity of a collision with the assistance of various sensor inputs. When the SDM detects a collision of sufficient force, it will process the information provided by the sensors to further support inflater module deployment. The steering column and knee bolsters are designed to absorb energy and compress during frontal collisions in order to limit leg movement and decrease the chance of injury to the driver and front passenger.


Help Keep Us Free-
Tip / Donation To the Mechanics


Q and A Main


How Things Work


Electrical