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Restraints Control Module (RCM): Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Mercury Mariner and 2010 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
    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.
  1. Install the RCM  and 3 bolts.
    • Tighten to 11 Nm (97 lb-in).
  2. Make sure the connector position assurance lever is in the full release position before attempting to connect the connector.
    Fig 1: Identifying Connector Position Assurance Lever
    G06063829Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  3. NOTE: Putting the large Restraints Control Module (RCM) electrical connector into the RCM  on an angle can cause bad electrical connections and damage components.
  4. Position the large RCM  electrical connector into the RCM  .
      NOTE: 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 component damage and/or system failure.
      Fig 2: Identifying Large RCM Electrical Wiring Connector
      G06063830Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    • 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. Connect the 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.
        Fig 3: Connecting Large Electrical Connector
        G06063831Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  6. Connect the small RCM  electrical connector and push the lock tab in.
    Fig 4: Connecting Small RCM Electrical Connector
    G06100218Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  7. Install the RCM  access cover.
    • Attach the 2 retainer hooks to the instrument panel brace.
    • Install the scrivet.
      Fig 5: Locating RCM Access Cover And Screws
      G06100212Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  8. Position the carpet into place and install the 2 front LH floor console screws.
  9. Repower the SRS  . Do not  prove out the SRS  at this time. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING .
  10. When installing a new RCM  , carry out the steps necessary to complete Programmable Module Installation (PMI). For additional information, refer to MODULE CONFIGURATION .
  11. Prove out the SRS  as follows:

    Turn the ignition from ON to OFF. Wait 10 seconds, then turn the ignition back ON and monitor the air bag warning 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 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 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 DTCs from the RCM  .