GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Saturn 🢒 2003 🢒 ION 🢒 Body and Accessories 🢒 Cellular Communication 🢒 Communication Interface Module Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Object Number: 888377 Size: SH

    Important: The vehicle communication interface module (VCIM) has a specific set of unique numbers that tie the module to each vehicle. These numbers, the 10-digit station identification and the 11-digit electronic serial number, are used by the National Cellular Network and OnStar® to identify the specific vehicle. Because these numbers are tied to the vehicle identification number of the vehicle, you must never exchange these parts with those of another vehicle.

    Important: This vehicle may be equipped with one of two versions of the OnStar® System.

    Early production vehicles will have the generation 4 module and later productions will have the generation 5 module. The two modules cannot be interchanged. The generation 4 module can be identified by the use of three connector cavities. The generation 5 module uses four connector cavities. In addition, the station identification and the electronic serial number information on the generation 5 label cannot be used to update customer account information if the module is replaced. You must use a scan tool to access this information.

  1. Remove the rear shelf trim. Refer to Rear Window Shelf Trim Panel Replacement .
  2. Remove the interface module from the bracket by pulling back on the bracket tabs.
  3. Disconnect the electrical harnesses and the antenna cable.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 888377 Size: SH
  1. When replacing a generation 4 VCIM only, record the 11-digit electronic serial number (ESN) and the 10-digit station identification (STID) number from the label on the new VCIM.
  2. Connect the antenna cable and electrical connections to the VCIM.
  3. Install the VCIM into the mounting bracket.
  4. Install the rear shelf trim. Refer to Rear Window Shelf Trim Panel Replacement .

    5. Important: After replacing the vehicle communication interface module, you must reconfigure the OnStar® system. Failure to reconfigure the system will result in an additional customer visit for repair. In addition, pressing and holding the white dot button on the keypad will NOT reset this version of the OnStar® system. This action will cause a DTC to set.

  5. Reconfigure the OnStar® system. Refer to OnStar Reconfiguration .