Air Bag Control Module: Service and Repair
RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE (RCM)Special Tool(s)
Special Tool(s):
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.
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.
All vehicles
1. Carry out the steps necessary to prepare for programmable module installation (PMI).
2. Depower the SRS.
Vehicles with high-series floor console
3. Remove the floor console.
Vehicles with a consolette
4. Remove the consolette tray mat.
5. Remove the 4 screws and remove the consolette tray.
All vehicles
6. Disconnect the small RCM electrical connector.
7. 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 RCM electrical connector.
8. Remove the 3 bolts and the RCM.
Installation
All vehicles
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.
Install the RCM and the 3 bolts.
- To install, tighten to 12 Nm (9 lb-ft).
2. Make sure the large RCM connector position assurance lever is in the full release position before attempting to connect the connector.
3. 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.
NOTE: The RCM has been removed for clarity.
Position the large RCM electrical connector into the RCM.
- CAUTION: Do not push the connector to the point 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. Damage to the connector or component may occur.
With the large RCM electrical connector uniformly aligned to the RCM, lightly push in until a subtle audible click is heard and slight resistance is felt.
4. Connect the large RCM electrical 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. Connect the small RCM electrical connector.
Vehicles with a consolette
6. Install the consolette tray and the 4 screws.
7. Install the consolette tray mat.
Vehicles with high-series floor console
8. Install the floor console.
All vehicles
9. Repower the SRS. Do not prove out the SRS at this time.
10. When installing a new RCM, carry out the steps necessary to complete PMI.
11. Prove out the supplemental restraint system (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 and occupant classification system module (OCSM) using a scan tool.