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Air Bag Control Module: Service and Repair

RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE (RCM) REMOVAL/INSTALLATION






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.
- Do not handle, move or change the original horizontal mounting position of the 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), it is necessary to carry out programmable module installation (PMI). See MODULE CONFIGURATION. Failure to follow these instructions may result in vehicle damage, equipment damage, component damage and/or system failure.

NOTE:
- 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.

1. If installing a new restraints control module (RCM), carry out the steps necessary to prepare for programmable module installation (PMI). See MODULE CONFIGURATION.
2. Depower the system. See SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING.
3. Remove the floor center console.
4. Remove the lower LH center instrument panel finish panel.




- Remove the pin-type retainer.
- Release the 2 retainer hooks from the instrument panel brace.

5. Position back the carpet on the LH and RH tunnel to access the RCM.
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 RCM.

Installation
1. Position the RCM and install the 3 bolts. Tighten to 11 N.m (1.1 kgf.m. 8 ft.lbf).

WARNING: The tightening torque RCM retaining bolts is critical for correct system operation.





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




- 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.

CAUTION:
- Putting the large restraints control module (RCM) electrical connector into the RCM on an angle can cause bad electrical connections and damage components.
- 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. Failure to follow these instructions may result in vehicle damage, equipment damage, component damage and/or system failure.

4. Connect the large RCM electrical connector.




- Pivot the connector position assurance lever toward the RCM, drawing the connector in to 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.
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.
- Attach the 2 retainer hooks to the instrument panel brace.
- Install the pin-type retainer.

8. Install the floor center console.
9. Repower the system. See SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING.
10. When installing a new RCM, carry out the steps necessary to complete programmable module installation (PMI). See MODULE CONFIGURATION.
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 warning indicator will light continuously for approximately 6 seconds and then turn OFF. If an air bag SRS fault is present, the air bag warning indicator will:
- fail to light.
- remain lit continuously.
- flash at a 5 Hz rate (RCM not configured).

The air bag warning 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 warning indicator and any SRS fault discovered must be diagnosed and repaired.

Clear all continuous diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the RCM.
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