Airbag Module/Computer

This procedure removes and replaces the airbag control module (ACM) located under the center console, requiring battery disconnect and proper handling of safety-critical airbag system components.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Airbag control module × 1 — Use OEM specification - must match VIN and vehicle configuration
• Module connector seals (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Obtain radio security code if equipped
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal first, then positive terminal
5. Wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge - set timer to be certain
6. Move driver seat fully rearward for access
7. Ensure replacement module is correct part number for your specific vehicle VIN and build date

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove center console front section
   If equipped with a center console and floor shifter, remove the gear shift knob by twisting counterclockwise (manual) or prying off the button cover and removing retaining screw (automatic). Note: many Ram 2500 trucks of this era use a column shifter and/or bench seat with no center console; if so, access the module directly at the floor/transmission tunnel. Remove two screws at front of center console near cup holders. Carefully lift front console section upward and rearward to disengage clips.
2. 2

   Remove center console rear section
   Open center console storage compartment and remove all contents. Remove four screws inside storage area securing rear console section. Disconnect any electrical connectors for power outlets or accessories. Lift rear console section upward to remove.
3. 3

   Access airbag control module
   The airbag control module is mounted on the transmission tunnel beneath the center console, typically just forward of the center position. It is a silver or black rectangular metal box approximately 4x6 inches with a yellow connector. Verify you have located the correct module before proceeding. Ensure at least 2 minutes have elapsed since battery disconnect (verify wait time against the vehicle FSM).
   ⚠Ensure 2 minutes have elapsed since battery disconnect. Verify ignition key is removed and no one activates ignition during this procedure.
4. 4

   Disconnect airbag module connector
   Locate the yellow airbag system connector on the module. Press the red safety tab and slide the connector locking mechanism away from the module. Carefully pull the connector straight out from the module without twisting. Do not allow connector to hang unsupported - secure it away from metal surfaces.
   ⚠️Never probe or test airbag connectors while connected. Yellow connectors indicate airbag system components - handle with extreme care.
5. 5

   Remove module mounting hardware
   Remove the module mounting bolts/nuts securing the airbag control module to the floor pan/bracket. Verify the exact number and location of fasteners against the vehicle FSM for your specific model year. Note the orientation of the module and any ground straps attached to mounting bolts before removal.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove airbag control module
   Carefully lift the airbag control module straight up and away from the mounting bracket. Inspect mounting surface for corrosion or damage. Check that no additional wiring harnesses or ground straps are still attached. Set old module aside on stable surface with connector facing upward.
7. 7

   Prepare new module installation
   Inspect new airbag control module packaging to verify correct part number matches your vehicle VIN. Examine mounting bracket on vehicle for corrosion - clean with wire brush if needed to ensure good ground contact. Verify connector seals on new module are intact and undamaged.
   ⚠New module must remain in anti-static packaging until ready for installation. Handle by edges only, avoiding contact with connector pins or circuit board.
8. 8

   Install new airbag control module
   Remove new module from packaging. Position new module onto mounting bracket in same orientation as original. If module has ground strap, ensure contact surfaces are clean and strap is properly positioned. Start all mounting bolts by hand before tightening to ensure proper alignment.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect module electrical connector
   Inspect yellow airbag connector for damage, corrosion, or bent pins. Align connector with module socket and press firmly until connector locks into place with audible click. Slide locking mechanism fully into locked position and verify red safety tab is engaged. Gently tug on connector to verify secure connection.
10. 10

    Reconnect battery and program module
    Reconnect positive battery terminal first, then negative terminal. If module programming is required for your model year, connect the appropriate factory-level Chrysler scan tool (DRB-II for early 1994-1995, DRB-III for later years, or compatible equivalent). Verify whether the ACM requires VIN programming against the vehicle FSM, as some early modules are plug-and-play. If programming is required for your model year, the module must be programmed to the vehicle using the proper Chrysler factory scan tool; generic scan tools cannot perform this function. Follow scan tool prompts to program new module with vehicle VIN and configuration data.
    ⚠️Module MUST be programmed to vehicle VIN using proper scan tool. Generic OBD-II scanners cannot perform this function. Unprogrammed module will not deploy airbags in crash.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Clear fault codes and verify system
    Using scan tool, clear all airbag fault codes. Cycle ignition OFF then ON. Observe airbag warning light - it should illuminate for 6-8 seconds then extinguish. If light remains on or flashes, retrieve fault codes and diagnose issue before proceeding. Do not drive vehicle with airbag warning light illuminated.
12. 12

    Reinstall center console
    Reconnect any electrical connectors for power outlets or accessories in rear console section. Position rear console section and secure with four screws inside storage compartment. Install front console section, engaging clips and securing with two front screws. Reinstall gear shift knob or button cover.

Reassembly

1. Verify all airbag connectors are fully locked with safety tabs engaged
2. Ensure no tools or parts are left in center console area
3. Test all accessories that were disconnected (power outlets, etc.)
4. Return driver seat to normal position
5. Enter radio security code if applicable

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine - airbag warning light should illuminate for 6-8 seconds then extinguish completely
• Use scan tool to verify no active or stored airbag fault codes present
• Confirm scan tool shows airbag module is communicating and all airbag circuits are reporting normal status
• Verify all center console components are securely reinstalled with no rattles
• Test drive vehicle and confirm airbag warning light does not illuminate during normal operation
• CRITICAL: If airbag warning light stays on, flashes, or any fault codes are present, DO NOT drive vehicle - system is not functional and requires immediate diagnosis

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