Restraints Control Module (RCM): Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Mercury Mariner and 2010 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Do not handle, move or change the original horizontal mounting position of the restraints control module (RCM) while the RCM is connected and the ignition switch is ON. Failure to follow this instruction may result in the accidental deployment of the Safety Canopy® and cause serious personal injury or death.

WARNING: If a vehicle has been in a crash, inspect the restraints control module (RCM) and the impact sensor (if equipped) mounting areas for deformation. If damaged, restore the mounting areas to the original production configuration. A new RCM and sensors must be installed whether or not the air bags have deployed. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury or death in a crash.

NOTE: This vehicle may be equipped with the SYNC® feature which contains the 911 assist option. Refer to Owner's Literature.

The RCM carries out the following functions:

Deploys the air bag(s)/safety canopies in the event of a deployable collision
Activates the safety belt buckle pretensioners to remove slack from the safety belt in the event of a deployable collision
Activates the driver and passenger retractor(s) to control the tension of the driver and passenger safety belts in the event of a deployable collision
Monitors the SRS for faults
Sends a message to the IC module to illuminate the air bag warning indicator if a fault is detected

The RCM monitors the SRS for possible faults. If a fault is detected, the RCM will request the IC module to illuminate the air bag warning indicator. When the ignition is turned OFF and then ON, the IC module will prove out the air bag warning indicator by lighting for 6 seconds. If no faults are detected by the RCM , the IC module will turn the air bag warning indicator off and it will remain off. If the RCM detects a fault, it will send a message to the IC module to turn the air bag warning indicator on and it will remain on for the rest of the ignition cycle. If the RCM requests illumination of the air bag warning indicator and the air bag warning indicator does not function, the IC module will automatically activate an audible chime. The chime is a series of 5 sets of 5 tone bursts. If the chime is heard, the SRS and the air bag warning indicator require repair.

The RCM includes a backup power supply. This feature provides sufficient backup power to deploy the air bags in the event that the ignition circuit is lost or damaged during impact. The backup power supply will deplete its stored energy approximately one minute after power and/or ground has been removed from the RCM .