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 SRS operation. If a vehicle equipped with an SRS system has been involved in a collision in which the driver seat floor 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.
- To reduce the risk of personal injury, do not use any memory saver devices.

CAUTION:
- To avoid potential damage to the RCM, make sure the RCM and bracket assembly is secured to the floor pan and the SRS is depowered before either disconnecting or reconnecting the RCM electrical connectors
- Electronic modules are sensitive to static electrical charges. If exposed to these charges, damage can result.

NOTE:
- The air bag warning lamp illuminates when the restraints control module (RCM) fuse is removed and the ignition switch is ON. This is normal operation and does not indicate a supplemental restraint system SRS fault.
- If a seat equipped with a supplemental restraint system (SRS) component is being serviced, the SRS must be depowered.
- When installing a new RCM, always make sure the correct RCM is being installed. If an incorrect RCM is installed, erroneous DTCs will result.
- 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.
- Mat or carpeting removed for clarity.

1. Depower the system.
2. Remove the driver seat.







3. CAUTION: Care must be taken to prevent damage to the RCM cover. If the RCM cover is damaged, a new cover must be installed.

Remove the RCM cover.
- Pry outward on each side of the cover to disengage the clips.
- Slide the cover rearward and remove.







4. NOTE: A similar RCM and connectors are shown.

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 and bracket assembly.

Installation

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

NOTE: Inspect the RCM bracket bolts for corrosion before securing the RCM and bracket assembly to the vehicle.

Install the RCM and bracket assembly and tighten the bolts to specification.
- Tighten to 12 Nm (9 lb-ft).

2. Connect the small RCM electrical connector.







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







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

NOTE: A similar RCM and connectors are shown.

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.







5. Align and install the RCM cover.
6. Install the driver seat.
7. Repower the system.