This procedure covers removal and replacement of the airbag control module (RCM) located under the center console, including required programming and crash data clearing.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Airbag Control Module (Restraint Control Module) × 1 — Use OEM specification - must match VIN
• Module mounting bracket (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 from vehicle
3. Open hood and disconnect negative battery terminal first, then positive terminal
4. Wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system capacitors to fully discharge
5. Move driver seat fully rearward for access to center console area
6. Document all diagnostic trouble codes with scan tool before disconnecting module

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove center console trim and access panel
   Using trim removal tools, carefully pry up the center console trim panel starting from the rear cupholders. Work around edges to release retaining clips. Lift and remove trim panel to expose console mounting hardware. Remove rubber mat from center console storage bin if equipped.
2. 2

   Remove center console assembly
   Locate and remove the four console mounting bolts (two at front near shifter, two at rear near cupholders). Disconnect any electrical connectors for USB ports, 12V outlets, or heated/cooled seat switches if equipped. Carefully lift console assembly up and rearward to clear shifter and remove from vehicle.
   ⚠Support console weight to avoid damaging electrical connectors during removal.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Locate airbag control module
   With console removed, locate the Restraint Control Module (RCM) mounted on the transmission tunnel floor, typically positioned between the front seats. The module is a rectangular aluminum housing approximately 5x7 inches with a large yellow connector. Verify you have identified the correct module before proceeding.
4. 4

   Disconnect module electrical connector
   Locate the yellow connector lock slide on the main module connector (12-way connector). Slide the red secondary lock tab out first, then press the primary connector lock tab and carefully pull connector straight back from module. Do not twist or rock connector. Inspect connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
   ⚠Do not force connector. If resistance is felt, verify locking tabs are fully released before pulling.
5. 5

   Remove ground strap connection
   Locate the ground strap attached to the module mounting bracket. Remove the ground strap bolt using 10mm socket. Clean ground contact surfaces on bracket if reinstalling same module. Keep ground strap bolt and washer together for reinstallation.
   ℹ️Ground connection is critical for proper module operation. Ensure contact surfaces are clean and free of paint or corrosion.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt16 Nm (12 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove module mounting bolts
   Remove the four module mounting bolts securing the RCM to the mounting bracket on the floor. Use 8mm socket. Support module while removing final bolt to prevent dropping. Carefully lift module away from bracket and set on clean, protected surface with connector side up.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Inspect mounting bracket and wiring
   Inspect mounting bracket for damage, cracks, or bent mounting points. Check all visible airbag system wiring under carpet and near module location for damage, chafing, or exposed wires. Inspect yellow connector on vehicle harness side for pushed-back pins, corrosion, or damage. Replace bracket if damaged.
   ⚠Any damaged airbag system wiring must be repaired per Ford service procedures before installing new module.
8. 8

   Install new airbag control module
   Remove new module from protective packaging by edges only. Position new RCM onto mounting bracket, aligning four mounting holes. Install four mounting bolts and tighten in criss-cross pattern to specified torque. Ensure module sits flat against bracket with no gaps.
   ⚠Handle new module only by edges. Avoid touching connector pins or circuit board components.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect ground strap
   Position ground strap onto mounting bracket stud or bolt location. Ensure mating surfaces are clean, bare metal contact. Install ground strap bolt and tighten to specified torque. Verify ground strap has solid mechanical and electrical connection.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt16 Nm (12 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Connect module electrical connector
    Align yellow connector with module receptacle, ensuring connector is properly oriented (keyed design prevents incorrect installation). Push connector firmly into module until primary lock clicks into place. Slide red secondary lock tab fully into locked position. Gently tug on connector to verify secure connection.
    ⚠Connector must be fully seated with both locks engaged. Partial connection will cause airbag system faults.
11. 11

    Reinstall center console assembly
    Position center console assembly over transmission tunnel, routing any electrical connectors through appropriate openings. Lower console into place, ensuring proper fitment around shifter. Reconnect all electrical connectors for USB ports and accessories. Install four console mounting bolts and tighten in criss-cross pattern to specified torque.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall console trim panel
    Position center console trim panel over console assembly, aligning all mounting clips with receptacles. Press firmly around perimeter until all clips snap into place. Verify trim panel is flush and secure. Replace rubber storage mat if equipped.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and verify connections
    Reconnect positive battery terminal first, then negative terminal. Tighten battery terminal bolts to specified torque. Do not overtighten. Ensure terminals are secure and free of corrosion.
    ⚠Battery terminal bolts are low torque specification. Overtightening can damage battery posts.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Program module and clear crash data
    Connect factory scan tool (Ford IDS or equivalent with SRS programming capability). Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine. Access RCM programming functions and perform: 1) Module configuration to vehicle VIN, 2) Clear crash data and DTCs, 3) Verify all airbag components are communicating. Follow all scan tool prompts completely. This step requires professional-level diagnostic equipment and training.
    ⚠️Module programming is mandatory and cannot be skipped. Unprogrammed module will not deploy airbags in crash. If you do not have appropriate scan tool and training, this service must be completed by qualified technician.

Reassembly

1. Verify all console trim panels and components are properly secured
2. Return driver seat to original position
3. Ensure no tools or parts are left in vehicle interior
4. Close hood and verify battery terminals are secure

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position - airbag warning light should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds then extinguish (this confirms module is programmed and system passed self-test)
• Using scan tool, verify no airbag system DTCs are present and all components show 'OK' status
• Verify airbag warning light does NOT remain illuminated or flash - if it does, system has detected fault and requires further diagnosis
• Test all center console functions (cupholders, storage bin, USB ports, shifter operation) to ensure proper reassembly
• Perform test drive and verify no warning lights illuminate during normal driving
• If airbag light remains on or any faults are present, DO NOT return vehicle to service - further diagnosis by qualified technician is required

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