This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Codes B3055, B3060, and/or B3935. Technician should not replace any parts for this concern. If unable to duplicate the concern ask if the customer uses any Radio Frequency Identification Devices when the concern is present. Dealer should also direct their customers to the appropriate section in the Owner manuals that references that the device complies.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2007 Saturn Sky airbags problems
moderate 215 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $1,100 · see airbags across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
215
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$1,100
5crashes
5injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 215 airbags complaints filed for the 2007 Saturn Sky, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
How fast does it fail?
Cumulative share of the 10 mileage-bearing airbags complaints filed against the 2007 Saturn Sky by each odometer reading. Median failure: 60,000 mi.
10% have failed by32,799 mi
Half the fleet by60,000 mi
90% have failed by81,000 mi
Curve based on owner-reported odometer mileage at the time of complaint. Reflects when owners filed, not when symptoms first appeared. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve.
What stands out
Airbags accounts for 76% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 6 categories tracked.
Owners have filed 215 airbags complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering airbags on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This technical bulletin provides a procedure to complete a terminal replacement or connector re connection to correct a condition of Diagnostic Information for Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System, Intermittent AIR BAG Indicator/Lamp Illuminated with DTC(s) B0012, B0013, B0015, B0016, B0019, B0020, B0022, B0023, B0026, B0033, B0040, B0042 or B0044 Set (Inspect and Replace Connector Position Assurance (CPA) Retainer)
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This informational bulletin provides Information on Passenger Presence Sensing System (PPS or PSS) Concerns with Custom Upholstery, Accessory Seat Heaters or Other Comfort Enhancing Devices
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗GENERAL MOTORS: DIAGNOSTIC INFORMATION FOR INTERMITTENT RESTRAINTS, AIR BAG (SIR) INDICATOR/LAMP ON WITH DTC(S) B0012, B0013, B0016, B0016, B0019, B0020, B0022, B0023, B0026, B0033, B0040, B0042 OR B0044 SET. THIS MAY BE CAUSED BY A LOOSE, MISSING, OR BROKEN CONNECTOR POSITION ASSURANCE (CPA) RETAINER AT THE AIR BAG FOR THE SET DTC. INCLUDES TRAILBLAZER EXT. UPDATED 8/16/10. UPDATED 3/12/12.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG DOOR DOES NOT FLUSH WITH DASH PAD/WARPED. (REPOSITION LOCKING TABS ON AIRBAG PANEL). UPDATED 10/5/07. UPDATED 9/12/08.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2007 Saturn Sky shows a widespread pattern of passenger-side airbag system failures centered on the Passenger Presence System (PPS) module and seat occupancy sensor. Owners report the "SERVICE AIR BAG" warning light illuminating on the dashboard, paired with a passenger airbag indicator that shows "OFF" even when an adult is seated. The sensor fails intermittently at first—cycling on and off during driving—then often becomes permanent.
Failures occur across a wide mileage range, from as low as 14,000 miles to over 80,000. Owners note the sensor fails from normal passenger-seat use (getting in and out), not from neglect or abuse. When the PPS module fails, the passenger-side airbag becomes disabled and will not deploy in a collision, creating a documented safety hazard.
GM issued recall 17V061000 (May 2017, recall #17036) to address this, but owners report two critical problems: (1) recall parts remained unavailable for extended periods, leaving many vehicles unable to be repaired; (2) the recall remedy used tape reinforcement or replacement sensors that failed again within months or a few thousand miles, sometimes within one year of repair. One owner reported a sensor failing twice—once before the recall and again after the recall repair was completed.
Repair costs range from $700 to $1,125 out of pocket. Owners describe this as a design defect in the PPS module and attribute similar failures to a plastic ribbon cable inside the sensor that cannot withstand repeated flexing during normal use.
Same Saturn Sky airbags reports on nearby years: 2008 · 2009
Failure modes owners describe
Passenger Presence System (PPS) Module / Seat Occupancy Sensor Failure
The PPS module or seat occupancy sensor fails to detect passenger presence, causing the passenger airbag to disable and the SERVICE AIR BAG warning light to illuminate. Owners report the failure occurs during normal use (passenger entry/exit) and is unrelated to vehicle maintenance or misuse.
When: Across a wide mileage range: 14,000 to 80,000+ miles; timing unpredictable; failures reported within months to years of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: SERVICE AIR BAG warning light on dash; Passenger airbag indicator shows OFF even with adult seated; Intermittent cycling of warning light and indicator (on/off) while driving; Passenger airbag permanently disabled; DIC message 'SERVICE AIR BAG' or 'SERVICE AIR BAG SOON'
Codes mentioned: B0081 (Passenger Present Module Failure)
Repairs/costs cited: PPS module or seat cushion assembly replacement required; parts cost $400–$500+; labor $300–$700; total repair cost $700–$1,125 out of pocket. GM dealership replacement sensor has been reported to fail again within months or one year of repair. Some owners attempted self-repair by replacing seat bottom cover and flexible circuit pad.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA recall 17V061000 (May 2017, recall #17036) issued to address PPS module failures. Recall remedy consisted of tape reinforcement or sensor replacement. Many owners report recall parts were unavailable for extended periods, preventing repair completion. Owners also report replacement sensors supplied under recall failed again within months to one year. GM denied recall coverage or warranty extension after recall warranty expired (typically one year). GM has not issued a comprehensive replacement program for failed replacement sensors. Similar issues in Cadillac CTS and Pontiac Solstice were recalled; Saturn Sky was not.
Intermittent Passenger Airbag Indicator Malfunction (Detection Misfire)
The passenger airbag indicator shows OFF when a passenger is actually seated, or flashes on and off unpredictably during driving. Sensor intermittently fails to recognize occupant presence, creating an unsafe condition where the airbag may not deploy during collision.
When: Intermittent at first; mileage varies; can persist for years before becoming permanent
Symptoms owners cite: Passenger airbag indicator OFF when passenger present; Indicator flashing or cycling on/off while driving with passenger; Indicator behavior changes unpredictably (may show ON at dealer, OFF at home); SERVICE AIR BAG warning light accompanying the intermittent indicator behavior
Codes mentioned: B0081
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer diagnostic testing required; one owner reported dealer could not duplicate intermittent failure during initial visit. Replacement of PPS module or seat assembly required; same cost and durability concerns as primary failure mode.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 17V061000; same limitations apply (parts unavailable, replacement sensors fail again).
Recall Remedy Failure (Repeated Failures After 17V061000 Repair)
Owners had their vehicles repaired under NHTSA recall 17V061000 and the same PPS module or sensor failed again within months to one year, with minimal vehicle use. The recall remedy did not provide a durable solution.
When: As early as 4,000 miles or 6–12 months after completed recall repair
Symptoms owners cite: SERVICE AIR BAG light reappears after recall repair; Passenger airbag indicator OFF again; Same failure pattern as original defect
Codes mentioned: B0081
Repairs/costs cited: Second repair cost $792–$900+ out of pocket; owners reported GM denied warranty coverage on the replacement sensor because the one-year recall warranty had expired. Parts used in the recall were described as a 'band-aid fix' or simple tape reinforcement that did not address underlying sensor design weakness.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 17V061000 issued May 2017 (recall #17036); GM part number 84447741. Warranty on recall repair typically one year. GM refused to extend warranty or issue a replacement program after the one-year period expired. GM stated the vehicle is out of production and therefore not a safety concern warranting further action.
Recall Parts Unavailability / Distribution Disconnect
Multiple owners received recall notification 17V061000 but were unable to complete the repair because the required parts were unavailable at dealerships for extended periods. Manufacturers did not provide estimated availability dates.
When: 2017 onward (recall date); parts remained unavailable for months after recall notice
Symptoms owners cite: SERVICE AIR BAG light illuminated; Unable to schedule recall repair (parts not in stock)
Codes mentioned: B0081 (where diagnosed)
Repairs/costs cited: No repair completed due to parts unavailability. Owners contacted multiple dealerships and GM; all confirmed parts were not available. Owners were left with disabled airbags and unable to pass state vehicle inspection.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA recall 17V061000; GM confirmed parts unavailable but did not provide interim repair option or alternative remedy. VIN tool notes document 'PARTS NOT AVAILABLE / PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.' Some owners reported GM case numbers were opened but no follow-up assistance provided.
Potential Airbag Non-Deployment Risk During Collision
With the PPS module failed and passenger airbag disabled, the passenger-side airbag will not deploy in a collision, leaving passengers unprotected. This is not a separately documented failure but a direct consequence of the PPS module/sensor failure.
When: Any time the SERVICE AIR BAG light is illuminated and passenger airbag indicator shows OFF
Symptoms owners cite: SERVICE AIR BAG warning light; Passenger airbag indicator OFF; No actual collision reported in narratives; risk is stated by owners and dealership service managers
Codes mentioned: B0081
Repairs/costs cited: Prevention: repair or replace PPS module. If repair is not completed, passenger remains at risk.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 17V061000 attempts to address this risk; however, recall remedy has proven inadequate.
Synthesized from 215 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 19 most recent
My 2007 Saturn sky with 81,000 miles on it displayed "service air bag", took it to gm dealer who diagnosed it as a passenger presence system (pps) fault and said the cost for repair would be $1000+. I paid them their diagnostic time ($105) and elected to repair myself. Removal of passenger seat bottom cover indicated a break in the flexible circuit pad which detects passenger presence. Cost for…
This is a 2007 Saturn Sky base. The GM recall is # 17036. Every time I contact a GM dealer for getting this recall taken care of, I am told they cannot get the parts, or that there is NOT any recall on this vehicle ! The first notice I rec'd for this recall is dated April 2017. I WANT TO GET THIS DONE AND TAKEN CARE OFZ. THIS has gone on long enough !!!
Dashboard message center indicating a "service air bag" message when car is started. Receive the message every time key is turned on... I understand from other owners of the Saturn sky this is a common issue related to the passenger side seat sensor. Gm will not cover the cost to replace the sensor, even though it is a part of the vehicle safety system. The failure of this component should not…
Airbag sensor has failed for second time in two years. *tr
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Saturn sky. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 17v061000 (air bags); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Patriot Chevrolet in limerick, pennsylvania was made aware of the recall and stated that the parts were unavailable. The…
Air bag warning light came on, and disappeared while at a red light in a period of about ~1 minute. After passenger sat in the car, air bag warning light came on again for a short period of about five minutes and off again. Passenger air bag indicator at the time when alert came on was noted as off state, all other time when passenger is present, indicator is noted as on state. After driving a…
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Saturn sky. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 17v061000 (air bags). The parts to do the repair were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact called silver star Buick GMC at (805) 267-3700 (3601 auto mall dr, thousand oaks, ca 91362) where it was confirmed that…
These cars have a problem with the passenger seat sensor, which turns on and off the passenger side airbag. While gm did issue a recall about a year ago, the parts used were a simple "band-aid" fix. My car was repaired a little over a year ago, and has done 5000 miles since, and the "repaired" part has failed again. Gm is refusing to fix this under recall and/or warranty and the cost to fix…
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Saturn sky. While operating the vehicle, the air bag sensor light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the passenger seat sensor was faulty. The seat cushion was replaced and the failure was remedied. Approximately 12,000 miles later, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not…
Passenger presence module went bad. Trips the air bag sensor to go off and can only be reset by dealer. Airbag will not deploy when a passenger is in the seat in an event of an accident. This has been a known safety issue for years.
Had airbags trouble with your 2007 Saturn Sky?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the airbags problem on the 2007 Saturn Sky?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 215 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $1,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the airbags typically fail?
Across the 151 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most airbags failures cluster between 27,000 and 66,000 miles, with the median around 45,500. A quarter of owners report trouble before 27,000; a quarter make it past 66,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $1,100 for airbags repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to airbags?
No active recalls currently cover airbags issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2007/Saturn/Sky.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.