Restraints Control Module (RCM)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Ford RV Cutaway, 2005 Ford Econoline, 2005 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2005 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: The restraints control module (RCM) orientation is critical for correct air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) operation. If a vehicle equipped with an SRS system has been involved in a collision inspect the RCM mounting area and bracket for deformation. If damaged, the RCM must be replaced whether or not the air bags have deployed. In addition, make sure the mounting area of the RCM is restored to its original condition.

CAUTION: To avoid potential damage to the restraints control module (RCM), make sure the RCM and bracket assembly is secured to the floor pan and the SRS is depowered before either disconnecting or reconnecting the RCM electrical connectors.

NOTE: When installing a new restraints control module (RCM), always make sure the correct RCM is being installed. If an incorrect RCM is installed, erroneous DTCs will result.

NOTE: The RCM has a protective cover that must be removed prior to removal of the RCM or during diagnostic procedures.

The restraints control module (RCM) is attached to a bracket, mounted under the front driver seat. The RCM carries out the following functions:

supplies current flow to the inflators to deploy the air bags in the event of a deployable crash.
activates the safety belt buckle pretensioners to remove slack from the safety belt.
monitors the air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) for faults.
illuminates the air bag indicator if a fault is detected.
flashes the air bag indicator to indicate the lamp fault code (LFC) detected.
communicates through the data link connector (DLC) the current (on-demand) or historical (continuous) diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
signals the instrument cluster module to activate a chime if the air bag indicator is not available and another SRS fault exists.
contains an internal safing sensor which is not serviced separately.
records deployment event data.

The RCM monitors the SRS for possible faults. If a fault is detected while the ignition switch is in the RUN position, the RCM will illuminate the air bag indicator located in the instrument cluster.

When the ignition is cycled (turned off and then on), the air bag indicator will remain lit for six seconds and then go out. If an SRS fault exists, the air bag indicator will then flash the two-digit LFC. The air bag indicator will flash the LFC three times, then it will remain illuminated for the rest of the key cycle. The RCM will also communicate the current and historical DTCs through the (DLC), using a scan tool. If the air bag indicator does not function, and the system detects a fault condition, the RCM will signal the instrument cluster module to activate an audible chime. The chime is a series of five sets of five tone bursts. If the chime is heard, the SRS and the air bag indicator require repair.

LFCs are prioritized. If two or more faults occur at the same time, the fault having the highest priority will be displayed first. After that fault has been corrected, the next highest priority fault will be displayed.

The RCM includes a backup power supply. This feature provides sufficient energy to deploy the front air bags and safety belt buckle pretensioners in the event that the ignition circuit is damaged or lost in a collision before the RCM determines that air bag deployment is required. The backup power supply will deplete its stored energy approximately one minute after the battery ground cable is disconnected.