Removal and Replacement

RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE (RCM)

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 supplemental restraint system (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, a new RCM must be installed whether or not the air bags have deployed. In addition, make sure the area of the RCM mounting is restored to its original condition.
- Never probe the connectors on the air bag module. Doing so can result in air bag deployment, which can result in 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.

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 supplemental restraint system (SRS) fault.
- When installing a new restraints control module (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. Depower the system. Service and Repair







2. Remove the right hand side restraints control module (RCM) retaining bolts.
1 Position the carpet back at the right hand side of the center tunnel area under the instrument panel (I/P).
2 Remove the bolts.

3. Position the carpet back at the left hand side of the center tunnel area under the instrument panel (I/P).







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 RCM electrical connector.







5. Remove the RCM.
1 Pull out and remove the electrical connector locking wedge.
2 Push down to release the retaining tab.
3 While releasing the retaining tab, pull out and disconnect the small RCM electrical connector.
4 Remove the bolt.
5 Remove the RCM.

Installation







1. WARNING: The tightening torque of the air bag restraints control module (RCM) retaining bolts is critical for correct system operation.

Position the RCM.
1 Position the RCM to the center tunnel area.
2 Install the bolts.
3 Position the carpet back at the right hand side of the center tunnel area under the instrument panel (I/P).







2. WARNING: The tightening torque of the air bag restraints control module (RCM) retaining bolts is critical for correct system operation.

Install the RCM.
1 Install the bolt.
2 Align the small RCM electrical connector and push in until the connector is fully seated into the RCM.
3 Install the electrical connector locking wedge.







3. Make sure the connector position assurance lever is in the full release position before attempting to connect the connector.







4. CAUTION: Putting the large RCM electrical 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 on 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 connector uniformly aligned to the RCM, lightly push in until a subtle audible click is heard and slight resistance is felt.







5. NOTE: The RCM has been removed for clarity.

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.

6. Repower the system. Service and Repair