Removal and Replacement
RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE (RCM)Special Tool(s):
SPECIAL TOOL(S)
REMOVAL
WARNING:
- The restraints control module (RCM) orientation is critical for proper air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) operation. If a vehicle equipped with an SRS system has been involved in a collision in which the center tunnel area has been damaged, inspect the mounting and bracket for deformation. If damaged, the RCM must be replaced whether or not the air bags have deployed. in addition, make sure the area of the RCM mounting is restored to its original condition.
- vehicle sensor orientation is critical for proper system operation. If a vehicle equipped with an air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) is involved in a collision, inspect the sensor mounting bracket and wiring pigtail for deformation. Replace and properly position the sensor or any other damaged supplemental restraint system (SRS) components whether or not the air bag is deployed.
- The tightening torque of the air bag restraints control module (RCM) retaining nuts is critical for correct system operation.
CAUTION: Electronic modules are sensitive to static electrical charges. If exposed to these charges, damage can result.
NOTE: Repair is made by installing a new part only. If the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and carry out the diagnostic procedure again.
1. WARNING: To avoid accidental deployment and possible personal injury, the backup power supply must be depleted before repairing or replacing any front or side air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) components and before servicing, replacing, adjusting or striking components near the front or side air bag sensors, such as doors, instrument panel, console, door latches, strikers, seats and hood latches.
The side impact sensors are attached to the rocker panels, near the seats.
To deplete the backup power supply energy, disconnect the battery ground cable and wait at least one minute. Be sure to disconnect auxiliary batteries and power supplies (if equipped).
Disconnect the battery ground cable and wait at least one minute.
2. WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, read and follow all warnings, notes, and instructions in the supplemental restraint system (SRS) deactivation/reactivation procedure. Refer to Air Bag(s) Arming and Disarming.
Deactivate the supplemental restraint system (SRS). Refer to Air Bag(s) Arming and Disarming.
3. Remove the center instrument panel to center console finish panel.
1 Pull up and position the center console finish panel away.
2 Pull out at the top and remove the center instrument panel to center console finish panel.
- If equipped with heated seats, disconnect the electrical connectors.
4. Position the lower center instrument panel finish panel aside.
1 Remove the screws.
2 Pull out to release the retaining clips.
- Position the lower center instrument panel finish panel aside.
5. Remove the components in the order indicated in the illustration and table.
Item 2: Connectors Removal Note
1. NOTE: The restraints control module is located on top of the center transmission tunnel under the instrument panel.
Disconnect the restraints control module (RCM) electrical connectors.
1 Slide and disengage the RCM electrical connector locking clips.
2 Depress the locking tab. Disconnect the RCM electrical connectors.
INSTALLATION
1. WARNING: The tightening torque of the air bag restraints control module (RCM) retaining bolts is critical for correct system operation.
NOTE: Make sure the battery negative cable is still disconnected before continuing with the installation portion of this procedure.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.
2. Connect the battery ground cable.
3. With the restraint system diagnostic tools installed at all deployable devices, prove out the supplemental restraint system (SRS). Prove Out Procedure
4. Disconnect the battery ground cable and wait at least one minute.
5. WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, read and follow all warnings, cautions, notes, and instructions in the supplemental restraint system (SRS) deactivation/reactivation procedure. Refer to Air Bag(s) Arming and Disarming.
Reactivate the supplemental restraint system (SRS). Refer to Air Bag(s) Arming and Disarming.
6. Connect the battery ground cable.
7. WARNING: The restraint system diagnostic tool is for restraint system service only. Remove from the vehicle prior to road use. Failure to remove could result in injury and possible violation of vehicle safety standards.
With all the restraint system diagnostic tools removed, prove out the supplemental restraint system (SRS). Prove Out Procedure
Item 2: Connectors Installation Note
1. Connect the RCM electrical connectors.
1 Connect the RCM electrical connectors.
2 Slide and engage the RCM electrical connector locking clips.