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Air Bag Control Module: Service and Repair

RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE (RCM)







Removal

WARNING:
- If a vehicle has been in a crash, inspect the restraints control module (RCM) and the impact sensor (if equipped) mounting areas for deformation. If damaged, restore the mounting areas to the original production configuration. A new RCM and sensors must be installed whether or not the air bags have deployed. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury or death in a crash.
- 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 this instruction may result in the accidental deployment of the safety canopy and cause serious personal injury or death.

CAUTION:
- When installing a new restraints control module (RCM), it is necessary to carry out programmable module installation (PMI). System failure may occur if PMI is not carried out.
- Electronic modules are sensitive to static electrical charges. If exposed to these charges, damage may result.

NOTE:
- The air bag warning indicator 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.
- 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. Remove the driver seat.

2. CAUTION: Care must be taken to prevent damage to the restraints control module (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.







3. 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.







4. Disconnect the small RCM electrical connector.
5. Remove the 3 bolts and the RCM and bracket assembly.

Installation

1. WARNING: Always tighten the fasteners of the restraints control module (RCM) and impact sensor (if equipped) to the specified torque. Failure to do so may result in incorrect restraint system operation, which increases the risk of personal injury or death in a crash.

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 restraints control module (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 restraints control module (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. When installing a new RCM, carry out the steps necessary to complete programmable module installation (PMI).
8. Prove out the SRS as follows:

Turn the ignition switch from ON to OFF. Wait 10 seconds, then turn the ignition switch back to ON and visually monitor the air bag indicator with the air bag modules installed. The air bag indicator will light continuously for approximately 6 seconds and then turn OFF. If an air bag SRS fault is present, the air bag indicator will:
- fail to light.
- remain lit continuously.
- flash at a 5 Hz rate (RCM not configured).

The air bag indicator might not light until approximately 30 seconds after the ignition switch has been turned from the OFF to the ON position. This is the time required for the RCM to complete the testing of the SRS. If the air bag indicator is inoperative and a SRS fault exists, a chime will sound in a pattern of 5 sets of 5 beeps. If this occurs, the air bag indicator and any SRS fault discovered must be diagnosed and repaired.

Clear all continuous DTCs from the RCM module using a scan tool.
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