Airbag Module/Computer

Remove and replace the airbag control module (ACM) located under the center console, including battery disconnect, system disarming, electrical connections, and mounting hardware.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Airbag control module × 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. Open hood and disconnect negative battery cable, then positive battery cable
4. Wait 10 full minutes before proceeding to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge
5. Place removed module in a secure location with the component label facing UP, away from loose objects

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove Center Console Side Panels
   Remove the center console side trim panels to access the module mounting area. The side panels are typically held by clips and may have fasteners at the rear. Carefully pry the panels away from the console body starting at the rear edge. Inspect for any fasteners that may be present before applying force.
2. 2

   Locate Airbag Control Module
   The airbag control module is mounted under the center console area, typically near the transmission tunnel. It is a rectangular metal box approximately 6x4 inches with a main wiring harness connector. Identify the module by tracing the main airbag system wiring harness to the module; do not rely on connector color, as standardized yellow airbag connectors were not universal on early-1990s systems.
3. 3

   Disconnect Airbag Module Harness
   Locate the yellow airbag system connector on the module. Release the connector lock mechanism (which may be a sliding tab or a pivoting lever depending on the specific connector) to the unlock position. Firmly grasp the connector body (not the wires) and pull straight away from the module. If a secondary connector is present, disconnect it using the same procedure. Do not pull on wires.
   ⚠️Verify 10 minutes have elapsed since battery disconnect before touching connectors. Touching connectors too soon risks airbag deployment.
4. 4

   Disconnect Ground Strap
   Locate the ground strap attached to the module mounting bracket or directly to the module case. Remove the ground strap bolt and carefully lift the ground strap away from the mounting point. Inspect the contact surfaces for corrosion. If corrosion is present, clean both surfaces with a wire brush until bare metal is visible.
   ⚠Ground connection integrity is critical for airbag system function. Corroded or loose grounds can prevent deployment or cause false warning lights.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove Module Mounting Bolts
   Remove the module mounting bolts securing the airbag control module to the bracket or floor pan. There are typically 2-4 bolts holding the module in place. Support the module with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove Airbag Control Module
   Carefully lift the airbag control module out of its mounting location. Avoid dropping or striking the module. Inspect the mounting bracket for damage or corrosion. If the bracket is corroded, clean it thoroughly with a wire brush.
7. 7

   Prepare New Module for Installation
   Remove the new airbag control module from its packaging. Verify the part number matches the original module or is the correct replacement per manufacturer specifications. Inspect the connector on the new module for any damage or debris. Do NOT remove any protective covers from connectors until ready to connect.
8. 8

   Install New Module
   Position the new airbag control module in the mounting bracket, aligning the mounting holes. Start all mounting bolts by hand to ensure proper thread engagement. Tighten mounting bolts in a cross pattern to the specified torque.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect Ground Strap
   Clean the ground strap contact surface and the mounting point contact surface with a wire brush or contact cleaner until bare metal is visible. Position the ground strap on the mounting point and install the ground strap bolt. Tighten to the specified torque. Ensure the ground strap has solid metal-to-metal contact.
   ⚠Clean contact surfaces are essential. Paint, corrosion, or dirt between surfaces will create a poor ground and system malfunction.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect Module Harness
    Align the yellow airbag system connector with the module connector. Push firmly until the connector is fully seated and you hear or feel a click. Slide the connector lock to the locked position. Gently tug on the connector body to verify it is secure. If a secondary connector is present, connect it using the same procedure.
11. 11

    Reinstall Console Trim Panels
    Reinstall the center console side trim panels in reverse order of removal. Ensure all clips are properly engaged and any fasteners are tightened securely. Verify panels are flush and properly aligned.
12. 12

    Reconnect Battery
    Reconnect the positive battery cable first, then the negative battery cable last. (Note: during disconnection the negative cable must always be removed first.) Tighten battery terminal bolts to the specified torque. Do not overtighten as this can damage the battery posts.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify ground strap has clean metal-to-metal contact and is torqued properly
3. Confirm all mounting bolts are tightened to specification
4. Check that console trim panels are properly secured

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine). The airbag warning light should illuminate for approximately 6-8 seconds, then extinguish. This indicates the system has completed its self-check and is functioning normally.
• If the airbag light remains on, flashes, or does not illuminate at all, the system has detected a fault. Use a professional scan tool to retrieve diagnostic codes.
• Start the engine and verify the airbag warning light remains off during normal operation.
• If warning light behavior is abnormal, DO NOT drive the vehicle. The airbag system may not function in a crash. Have the system professionally diagnosed.
• Many replacement modules require dealer programming or calibration even if the warning light is off. Verify with the module manufacturer whether programming is required.

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