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Restraints Control Module (RCM): Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Mercury Milan, 2008 Lincoln MKZ, and 2008 Ford Fusion. 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. Position the RCM.
    • Install the 2 RH side RCM bolts.
      • Tighten to 12 Nm (106 lb-in).
    • Position the carpet back at the RH side of the center tunnel area under the instrument panel.
  2. Install the RCM.
    • Install the LH side RCM bolt.
      • Tighten to 12 Nm (106 lb-in).
    • Connect the small RCM electrical connector.
  3. Make sure the large RCM connector position assurance lever is in the full release position before attempting to connect the connector.
  4. Fig 1: View Of Connector Position Assurance Lever
    G03989905Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    NOTE: Placing the large Restraints Control Module (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.
  5. 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. Damage to the connector or component may occur.
    • 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.
  6. Fig 2: Large RCM Electrical Wiring Connector
    G03903873Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  7. 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.
  8. Fig 3: Locating RCM Electrical Connector
    GF0008859Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  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. If installing a new RCM, Complete the PMI procedure. For additional information, refer to MODULE CONFIGURATION article.
  11. 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 at a 5 Hz rate (RCM not configured).

    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 DTCs from the RCM and Occupant Classification System Module (OCSM) using a scan tool.