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Air Bag Control Module: Service and Repair

RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE (RCM)


Special Tool(s):






Special Tool(s)







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 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.
- 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 RCM, it is necessary to carry out programmable module installation (PMI). Programming and Relearning

NOTE:
- 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 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. Carry out the steps necessary to prepare for programmable module installation (PMI).
2. Depower the system.
3. Remove the center console.







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.

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

2. Connect the small RCM electrical connector.







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







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

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. 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. Install the center console.
7. Repower the SRS. Do not prove out the SRS at this time.
8. When installing a new RCM, carry out the steps necessary to complete programmable module installation (PMI).
9. Prove out the supplemental restraint system (SRS) as follows:

Turn the ignition switch from ON to OFF. Wait 10 seconds, then turn the 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 supplemental restraint system (SRS) fault is present, the air bag indicator will:
- fail to light.
- remain lit continuously.
- flash.

The flashing might not occur 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 restraints control module (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 using a scan tool.
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