B3000 V6-3.0L OHV (2006)
Air Bag Control Module: Description and Operation
Restraints Control Module (RCM)
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 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.
NOTE: When installing a new RCM, always make sure the correct RCM is being installed If an incorrect RCM is installed, erroneous DTCs will result.
The RCM is mounted on the center tunnel under the instrument panel.The RCM:
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signals the inflators to deploy the air bags in the event of a deployable crash.
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activates the safety belt buckle pretensioners to remove slack from the safety belt.
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monitors the air bag 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 DTCs.
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signals the instrument cluster module to activate a chime if the air bag indicator is not available and another SRS fault exists.
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contains an internal safing sensor which is not serviced 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 illuminates the air bag
indicator located in the instrument cluster.
When the ignition is cycled (turned OFF and then ON), the air bag indicator remains lit for 6 seconds and then goes out If an SRS fault exists, the air bag
indicator flashes the 2-digit LFC The air bag indicator flashes the LFC 5 times, then remains illuminated for the rest of the key cycle The RCM also
communicates the current and historical DTCs through the DLC, using the WDS or equivalent tester If the air bag indicator does not function, and the
system detects a fault condition, the RCM signals the instrument cluster module to 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 indicator require repair.
LFCs are prioritized. If 2 or more faults occur at the same time, the fault having the highest priority is displayed first. After that fault has been corrected,
the next highest priority fault is 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 sating and air bag sensors determine that an air bag deployment is required. The backup power supply depletes its
stored energy approximately 1 minute after the negative battery cable is disconnected.
