Mustang Cobra V8-4.6L DOHC VIN V (2000)
Air Bag Control Module: Description and Operation
The Restraints Control Module (RCM) performs the following functions:
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signals the inflators to deploy the air bags in the event of a deployable crash.
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monitors the air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for faults.
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illuminates the air bag indicator if a fault is detected.
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flashes the air bag indicator to indicate the Lamp Fault Code (LFC) detected.
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communicates through the Data Link Connector (DLC) the current or historical Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
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signals the Generic Electronic Module (GEM) to activate a chime if the air bag indicator is not available and another SRS fault exists.
NOTE: The safing sensor is internal to the RCM and is not repaired separately.
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 begin its prove out sequence. During prove out the air bag indicator will
illuminate for six seconds, go off for two seconds and then, if a system fault exists, flash the two-digit LFC. The air bag indicator will flash the LFC five
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 GEM 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. Meter that fault has been
corrected, the next highest priority fault will be displayed.
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
damaged in a collision before the safing and air bag sensors determine that deployment is required. The backup power supply will deplete its stored
energy approximately one minute after the battery ground cable is disconnected.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The electrical system that supports the air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS):
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is powered from the battery through the ignition circuit.
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provides the electrical path from the Restraints Control Module (RCM) to the air bag modules.
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provides the electrical path from the RCM to the air bag indicator.
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provides the electrical path from the RCM to the Data Link Connector (DLC).
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provides the electrical path from the RCM to the Generic Electronic Module (GEM).
