Restraints Control Module (RCM): Installation

All vehicles 

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: Locating Connector Position Assurance Lever

   Courtesy 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 electrical connector into the RCM  .
   NOTE: Do not push on the connector so that 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.
   Fig 2: Locating Large RCM Electrical Connector
   Courtesy 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.
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.
       Fig 3: Connecting RCM Electrical Connector

       Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
5. Connect the small RCM  electrical connector.
   Fig 4: Locating Small RCM Electrical Connector

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

   Vehicles with bucket seats without center console 

6. Install the 3 pushnut retainers and RCM  cover.

   Vehicles with center console 

7. Install the center console. For additional information, refer to INSTRUMENT PANEL .

   All vehicles 

8. Repower the SRS  . For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) DEPOWERING AND REPOWERING  in this information.
9. If a new RCM  was installed, carry out the appropriate steps in the Programmable Module Installation (PMI) procedure. For additional information, refer to MODULE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK - MODULE CONFIGURATION .
10. 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 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.

    The air bag warning 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 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 memory DTCs from the RCM  .