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Restraints Control Module (RCM): Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Mercury Mariner and 2008 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.
    3. Fig 1: View Of Connector Position Assurance Lever
    G03989905Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    NOTE: Putting the large Restraints Control Module (RCM) electrical connector into the RCM on an angle can cause bad electrical connections and damage components.
  3. 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.
    • 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. Fig 2: Large RCM Electrical Wiring Connector
    G03903873Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  4. 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.
    5. Fig 3: Locating RCM Electrical Connector
    GF0008859Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  5. Connect the small RCM electrical connector.
  6. Install the lower LH center instrument panel finish panel.
    • Attach the 2 retainer hooks to the instrument panel brace.
    • Install the pin-type retainer.
    7. Fig 4: Identifying Retainer And Hooks
    GF0041981Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  7. Install the center console. For additional information, refer to INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CONSOLE article.
  8. Repower the SRS. Do not  prove out the SRS at this time. For additional information, refer to Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Depowering and Repowering  in the General Procedures portion of this section.
  9. When installing a new RCM, carry out the steps necessary to complete PMI. For additional information, refer to MODULE CONFIGURATION article.
  10. Prove out the SRS as follows:

    Turn the ignition from ON to OFF. Wait 10 seconds, then turn the ignition back ON and visually 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.

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