Ford 8T4Z-14B321-A
Control Module

Safety glasses should always be worn while servicing the air bag control module because accidental air bag deployment can cause injuries. Correct SRS operations depend on the appropriate orientation of the restraints control module (RCM). A vehicle that experienced a collision with center tunnel damage needs an RCM replacement unless the RCM shows no air bag deployment. A thorough inspection needs to be done on RCM mounting and bracket deformation to determine whether the RCM requires replacement. Refuse to put vehicles back into service if the RCM area remains with altered conditions because such practices result in dangerous injuries. Memory saver devices should not be used because they increase personal injury potential. Static electricity harms electronic modules because they tend to be highly sensitive to electrical charges. Programming for a new RCM installation requires executing a procedure known as programmable module installation (PMI). After turning on the ignition the air bag warning indicator will brighten when the RCM fuse is extracted but this condition signifies normal SRS system functioning. The correct RCM needs to be verified to avoid incorrect Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) from emerging. Operation of the SRS depends on the correct functionality of all systems before giving the vehicle back to customers. You should replace the broken part with a new one yet if the issue continues try reusing the original equipment and rerun diagnostic examinations. RCM installation requires technicians to disable the system then remove the floor console and selector lever cable before removing the inner floor console support bracket. To remove the RCM disconnect both its small and large electrical connectors before taking out the component. To install the RCM secure it with three bolts at 12 Nm (9 lb-ft) torque but first fully release the large connector position assurance lever before connection. Retrieving the large RCM electrical connector requires careful positioning to prevent damage until the connector engages by an audible click from the position assurance lever. Attach the small RCM electrical connector followed by reinstallation of the inner floor console support bracket installed with four bolts tightened to 12 Nm (9 lb-ft). Attach all screws which join the inner floor console bracket support to the instrument panel before installing the selector lever cable and simultaneously plugging in electrical connectors to the front inner floor console support bracket. Reinstall the floor console and repower the SRS without proving it and then execute PMI. Operation of the SRS can be verified by starting with the ignition set to ON then turning it to OFF before waiting 10 seconds to return it to ON position while checking the air bag indicator illumination. The indicator will activate for six seconds before it stops operating. The system requires further inspection when the indicator fails to illuminate or when it remains permanently lit or flashes at 5 Hz. The air bag indicator requires thirty seconds to activate when turning the ignition ON because of RCM testing. There is a 5-beeping sequence to warn about a defective air bag warning indicator which requires both warning indicator and SRS system diagnosis and repair when such an indicator fault exists. A scan tool must be used to clear every continuous DTC that appears in the RCM and occupant classification sensor (OCS) module.

A necessary first step for Restraints Control Module (RCM) service involves inspecting both RCM and impact sensor mounting locations for possible crash-related deformities and fully returning them to their original parts layout. Installing fresh RCM components and sensors becomes necessary before any death-threatening issues can occur. The RCM should be handled with care during electronic operations to protect against static discharge while implementing the right RCM to stop erroneous DTCs. The RCM fuse removal will cause the air bag warning indicator to turn on when the ignition is active. This operation is considered normal. The diagnostic process should start again with the original part after new component installation when the problem continues. Start your work by preparing for PMI installation then disable the SRS system. Start by removing the floor console followed by disconnecting the selector lever cable and removing the inner floor console support through the removal of appropriate bolts and electrical connectors. Take off the RCM after disconnecting its small and large electrical connectors. Installation procedures call for the RCM fasteners to be torqued at 12 Nm before checking that the large connector aligns properly without requiring unnecessary force. The installation process starts with reconnecting both RCM electrical connectors followed by the reinstall of the inner floor console support which must be bolted in place while the selector lever cable requires proper locking. Reconnect the power system before reinstalling the floor console and SRS electrical supply but do not execute system tests at this time. The new RCM requires a complete PMI procedure until the SRS system proves out with the air bag indicator activating for six seconds before it eventually shuts off. Check and fix the SRS problems when you detect a malfunction of the indicator or continuous indicator glow or flashing. A scan tool must be used to remove all continuous DTCs from both the RCM as well as the occupant classification system module (OCSM).