Mustang V8-5.4L SC VIN S (2007)
Air Bag Control Module: Description and Operation
RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE (RCM)
WARNING: The RCM orientation is critical for correct system operation. If a vehicle equipped with an air bag supplemental restraint system
(SRS) has been involved in a collision in which the center tunnel area has been damaged, inspect the mounting and bracket for deformation. If
damaged, a new RCM must be installed 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 restraints control module (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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deploys the air bags in the event of a deployable impact.
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activates the safety belt retractor pretensioners to remove slack from the safety belt webbing.
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monitors the SRS for faults.
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illuminates the air bag warning indicator if a fault is detected.
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illuminates the PAD indicator when conditions warrant illumination.
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flashes the air bag warning 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 warning indicator is not available and another SRS fault exists.
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records deployable and non-deployable impact 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
restraints indicator lamp located in the instrument cluster.
When the ignition is cycled (turned off and then on), the air bag warning indicator will remain lit for 6 seconds and then go out. If an SRS fault exists,
the air bag warning indicator will then flash the 2-digit LFC associated with that fault. The air bag warning indicator will flash the LFC 5 times, then
remain illuminated for the rest of the key cycle. The RCM will communicate current and history DTCs through the DLC using a scan tool. If the air bag
warning indicator does not function, and the RCM detects a fault condition, the RCM will signal 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 warning indicator require repair.
LFCs are prioritized. If 2 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 power to deploy the front air bags, seat side air bags (if equipped) and the
safety belt pretensioners in the event that the ignition circuit is damaged in a collision before the air bags are deployed. The backup power supply will
deplete its stored energy reserve in approximately 1 minute after the battery ground cable is disconnected.
