Airbag Module/Computer

Remove and replace the airbag control module (ACM) on a 2005 Dodge Viper, including battery disconnection, module access, replacement, and diagnostic system verification.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Airbag control module (ACM) × 1 — Use OEM specification - must be VIN-programmed

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake.
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key from ignition.
3. Open driver's door and leave it open throughout the procedure to prevent accidental lockout.
4. Locate the negative battery terminal in the engine compartment.
5. Confirm you have factory-level scan tool capability for post-installation VIN programming and system verification.

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery and wait for system discharge
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen and remove the negative battery terminal bolt. Remove the negative cable from the battery post and secure it away from the terminal so it cannot make contact. Wait a MINIMUM of 2 minutes before proceeding to allow airbag system capacitors to fully discharge. Set a timer - do not estimate. Note: Torque the battery terminal bolt to specification (typically approximately 5-9 ft-lbs for a battery clamp - verify against factory specification) using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Access center console area
   Move both driver and passenger seats fully rearward for working clearance. The airbag control module (also called the Occupant Restraint Controller) is mounted on the floor/transmission tunnel in the center of the vehicle. Verify the exact location against the 2005 Viper factory service manual before proceeding, as access may require removal of the center console or specific trim panels.
3. 3

   Remove center console lower trim access
   Identify the lower trim or access panels beneath the center console. Check for fasteners securing any lower trim pieces - these may be small screws or push-clips. Remove any fasteners found and carefully pry or pull trim pieces downward to expose the module mounting area. The module itself is typically a metal box (approximately 4x6 inches) with a large multi-pin connector and mounting bracket.
4. 4

   Disconnect module electrical connector
   Locate the large yellow or orange multi-pin connector attached to the airbag control module. This connector has a locking mechanism - typically a slider lock or squeeze-tab design. Carefully release the connector lock by sliding or squeezing as appropriate, then pull the connector straight away from the module. Do not twist or bend connector pins. Inspect connector for corrosion, bent pins, or damage - these must be corrected before installing new module.
   ⚠Never attempt to force or pry the connector. If resistance is encountered, verify the locking mechanism is fully released.
5. 5

   Remove module mounting fasteners
   Identify the mounting bolts securing the airbag control module to its bracket or vehicle structure. Using a 7mm or 10mm socket (verify which size fits), remove the mounting bolts. Note the exact location and orientation of any ground straps, brackets, or spacers attached with the module - these must be reinstalled in the same configuration.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove old airbag control module
   Carefully lower the module from its mounting location, keeping the connector side facing DOWN at all times. Place the old module on a stable surface with connector side down. If the module will be returned as a core or for warranty, wrap it in protective material and store in a location where it cannot be struck or dropped.
   ⚠Never place the module connector-side-up. This is the deployment orientation and should be avoided even with a discharged system.
7. 7

   Prepare new airbag control module
   Remove the new airbag control module from its packaging. Inspect the module for any shipping damage, bent connector pins, or missing mounting hardware. Verify the module part number matches the vehicle application - Viper modules may be specific to model year and should match OEM specifications. Keep module in anti-static packaging until ready to install.
8. 8

   Install new module to mounting location
   Position the new airbag control module into the mounting bracket or location, ensuring correct orientation (connector facing the direction of the harness). Reinstall any ground straps or brackets in their original positions. Install mounting bolts finger-tight first to verify alignment, then torque to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

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

   Connect module electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the module connector pins and push firmly until fully seated. You should hear or feel a positive click when the connector locks. Verify the locking mechanism (slider or tab) is fully engaged. Gently tug on the connector to confirm it is secured and will not pull loose.
10. 10

    Reinstall console trim and access panels
    Reinstall any trim panels or access covers removed in step 3, ensuring all fasteners are secured and panels are properly seated. Verify no wiring is pinched or exposed.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery
    Reinstall the negative battery cable to the negative battery terminal. Torque the battery terminal bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten - these terminals can strip easily.
    ⚠Do NOT turn the ignition on yet. Module programming must occur before the system is energized for normal operation.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Program module to vehicle VIN
    Connect the appropriate factory Chrysler scan tool (DRB-III or StarSCAN, depending on the vehicle's diagnostic bus - verify against 2005 Viper service documentation) to the vehicle diagnostic port. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine). Using the scan tool, navigate to the airbag control module programming function. Follow the scan tool prompts to program the vehicle VIN into the new module. This process typically takes 2-5 minutes and may require multiple steps including security access codes. Do not interrupt power during programming or the module may be rendered inoperable.
    ⚠️VIN programming is MANDATORY. Failure to program the module will result in non-functional airbag system. Aftermarket scan tools often cannot perform this function - factory-level equipment is required.
13. 13

    Clear diagnostic trouble codes and verify system operation
    Using the scan tool, read and clear all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the airbag control module. Turn ignition OFF, wait 10 seconds, then turn ignition back to ON position. Observe the airbag warning light on the instrument cluster - it should illuminate for approximately 6-8 seconds during bulb check, then extinguish. Use the scan tool to verify no active or pending DTCs are present and that the module reports all monitored airbag circuits as 'OK' or 'READY'.
    ⚠️If the airbag warning light remains illuminated after bulb check, or if DTCs are present, DO NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE. The airbag system is not functioning correctly and requires further diagnosis.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels are fully secured and no fasteners are missing.
2. Return driver and passenger seats to normal positions and verify full range of adjustment is not obstructed.
3. Verify airbag warning light behavior: illuminates briefly at ignition-ON, then extinguishes within 8 seconds.
4. Store the old airbag control module in a safe location for core return if applicable, keeping connector side down.

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify airbag warning light illuminates briefly (6-8 seconds) then extinguishes completely.
• Using scan tool, verify no active or pending DTCs in the airbag control module.
• Using scan tool, verify all monitored airbag circuits (driver airbag, passenger airbag, side airbags, seat belt pretensioners, impact sensors) report 'READY' or 'OK' status.
• Verify module VIN programming matches vehicle VIN exactly using scan tool VIN display function.
• Perform a test drive on a safe road and verify warning light does not illuminate during normal operation.
• After test drive, use scan tool to verify no new DTCs have been stored and all systems remain operational.

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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