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.

WARNING: 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(R) and cause serious personal injury or death.

NOTE: The air bag warning indicator illuminates when the correct Restraints Control Module (RCM) fuse is removed and the ignition is ON.

NOTE: The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) must be fully operational and free of faults before releasing the vehicle to the customer.

NOTE: Carrying out Programmable Module Installation (PMI) will not enable the 911 assist option that is disabled. The RCM and Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) must be configured correctly to fully support 911 assist functionality.

1. When installing a new RCM, carry out the appropriate steps necessary for the Programmable Module Installation (PMI) procedure. For additional information, refer to Module Configuration Module Configuration.

2. Depower the SRS. For additional information, refer to Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Depowering and Repowering Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Depowering and Repowering in the General Procedures information.

3. Remove the floor console. For additional information, refer to Instrument Panel and Console Service and Repair.

4. Slide the locking wedge back, press to release the locking tab and disconnect the small RCM electrical connector.

5. Disconnect the large RCM electrical connector.

1. Pinch the thumb tab and pivot the Connector Position Assurance (CPA) lever all the way back until it stops.

2. Pull out and disconnect the RCM electrical connector.





6. Remove the 3 nuts and the RCM.

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.

Install the RCM and 3 nuts.

- Tighten to 11 Nm (97 lb-in).

2. Make sure the CPA lever is in the full release position before attempting to connect the connector.





3. NOTICE: Putting the large Restraints Control Module (RCM) electrical connector into the RCM on an angle can cause bad electrical connections and damage components.

Position the large RCM electrical connector into the RCM.

- NOTICE: 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. Failure to follow this instruction may result in component damage and/or system failure.

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 CPA 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 and push the locking wedge in.

6. Install the floor console. For additional information, refer to Instrument Panel and Console Service and Repair.

7. Repower the SRS. Do not prove out the SRS at this time. For additional information, refer to Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Depowering and Repowering Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Depowering and Repowering in the General Procedures information.

8. If a new RCM was installed, carry out the appropriate steps to complete the Programmable Module Installation (PMI) procedure. For additional information, refer to Module Configuration Module Configuration.

9. 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 warning indicator with the air bag modules installed. The air bag warning indicator will illuminate 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 may not illuminate 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 warning indicator is inoperative and a SRS fault exists, a chime sounds in a pattern of 5 sets of 5 beeps. If this occurs, diagnose and repair the air bag warning indicator and any SRS fault discovered.

Use a scan tool and clear all continuous DTCs from the RCM and Occupant Classification System Module (OCSM).