Restraints Control Module (RCM): Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Milan, 2006 Lincoln Zephyr, and 2006 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: A new RCM must be configured following installation. Failure to follow this instruction may result in personal injury.

WARNING: The tightening torque of the air bag RCM retaining bolts is critical for correct system operation.

Position the RCM.
- Install the 2 RH side RCM retaining bolts.
  - Tighten to 12 Nm (9 lb-ft).
- Position the carpet back at the RH side of the center tunnel area under the I/P.

WARNING: The tightening torque of the air bag RCM retaining bolt is critical for correct system operation.

Install the RCM.
- Install the remaining bolt.
  - Tighten to 12 Nm (9 lb-ft).
- Connect the small RCM electrical connector.
Make sure the large RCM connector position assurance lever is in the full release position before attempting to connect the connector.

Fig 1: Locating Large RCM Connector Position Assurance Lever
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Placing the large RCM electrical wiring connector into the RCM on an angle, can cause bad electrical connections and damaged components.

NOTE: The RCM has been removed for clarity.

Position the large RCM electrical 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.
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.
    
    Fig 3: Connecting RCM Electrical Connector
    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Position the carpet back at the LH side of the center tunnel area under the I/P.
Repower the SRS. Do not prove out the SRS at this time . For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING .
When installing a new RCM, download the saved RCM module configuration information from the diagnostic tool to the new RCM. For additional information, refer to MODULE CONFIGURATION .
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 diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the RCM and occupant classification sensor (OCS) module using a diagnostic tool.