Air Bag Control Module: Service and Repair

RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE (RCM)







Removal

WARNING:
- Always wear safety glasses when repairing an air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) vehicle and when handling an air bag module. This will reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accidental deployment.
- The restraints control module (RCM) orientation is critical for correct air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) operation. If a vehicle equipped with an SRS system has been involved in a collision in which the center tunnel area has been damaged, inspect the mounting and bracket for deformation. If damaged, the RCM must be replaced whether or not the air bags have deployed. In addition, make sure the area of the RCM is restored to its original condition.
- Do not handle, move or change the original horizontal mounting position of the restraints control module (RCM) while the RCM is connected and the ignition switch is ON. Failure to follow these instructions may result in the inadvertent deployment of the safety canopy and risk of personal injury.
- To reduce the risk of personal injury, do not use any memory saver devices.

CAUTION:
- Electronic modules are sensitive to static electrical charges. If exposed to these charges, damage can result.
- When installing a new restraints control module (RCM), always make sure the correct RCM is being installed. The RCM 40-pin connector is keyed differently for vehicles with safety canopies and side air bags than the 40-pin connector for vehicles without safety canopies and side air bags. Do not force the 40-pin connector onto the RCM. If the connector is forced onto the RCM, damage to the RCM and/or connector will occur.

NOTE:
- When installing a new restraints control module (RCM), always make sure the correct RCM is being installed. If an incorrect RCM is installed, erroneous DTCs will result.
- The air bag warning lamp illuminates when the RCM fuse is removed and the ignition switch is ON. This is normal operation and does not indicate a supplemental restraint system (SRS) fault.
- The SRS must be fully operational and free of faults before releasing the vehicle to the customer.
- Repair is made by installing a new part only. If the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and carry out the diagnostic procedure again.

1. Depower the system.







2. Remove the lower LH center instrument panel finish panel.
3. Position back the carpet on the LH and RH tunnel to access the RCM.







4. Disconnect the large RCM electrical connector.
1 Pinch the thumb tab and pivot the connector position assurance lever all the way back until it stops.
2 Pull out and disconnect the large RCM electrical connector.

5. Disconnect the small RCM electrical connector.
6. Remove the 3 bolts and the RCM.

Installation

1. WARNING: The tightening torque of the air bag RCM retaining bolts is critical for correct system operation.

Position the RCM and install the 3 bolts.
- Tighten to 11 Nm (8 lb-ft).

2. Connect the small RCM electrical connector.







3. Make sure the connector position assurance lever is in the full release position before attempting to connect the large RCM electrical connector.







4. CAUTION: Putting the large RCM electrical wiring connector into the RCM on an angle can cause bad electrical connections and damage components.

NOTE: The RCM has been removed for clarity.

Position the large RCM electrical wiring connector into the RCM.

- CAUTION: Do not push the connector to where the lever pivots and seats itself. Light pressure is needed to get the connector into position on the RCM before using the lever to fully seat the connector.

With the large RCM electrical wiring connector uniformly aligned to the RCM, lightly push in until a subtle audible click is heard and a slight resistance is felt.







5. NOTE: The RCM has been removed for clarity.

Connect the large RCM electrical wiring connector.
- Using the connector position assurance lever, pivot it toward the RCM, drawing the connector into the RCM.
- Make sure the thumb tab is engaged to the retainer on the RCM and locked in place.

6. Position back the carpet on the LH and RH tunnel to its original position.
7. Install the lower LH center instrument panel finish panel.
8. Repower the system.