This procedure covers removal and replacement of the airbag control module (Restraints Control Module/RCM) located under the center console on 2021-2024 Ford F-150 vehicles with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Airbag Control Module (RCM) × 1 — Use OEM Ford replacement only
• RCM bracket (if damaged) × 1 — Inspect before ordering

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key fob from vehicle interior
3. Connect scan tool and retrieve all airbag system diagnostic trouble codes and freeze frame data. Document for reference
4. Open hood and locate battery in engine compartment
5. Move front seats fully rearward for access to center console area
6. Ensure no metal tools or conductive objects are near battery terminals during disconnect

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Loosen and disconnect the negative battery terminal first, then disconnect the positive terminal. Secure terminals away from battery posts to prevent accidental reconnection. Do NOT allow terminals to touch each other or any metal surface.
   ⚠️Wait a MINIMUM of 3 minutes after battery disconnect before proceeding. Set a timer. This allows airbag system capacitors to discharge completely.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove center console trim panels
   Starting at the rear of the center console, carefully pry up the rear trim panel using trim removal tools. Work around the perimeter to release all clips. Remove the gear selector trim panel by lifting upward once clips are released. Remove cupholders if necessary by releasing retaining tabs.
3. 3

   Remove center console mounting fasteners
   Locate and remove all center console mounting screws. There are typically 4-6 screws securing the console assembly - check under cupholders, storage bins, and along the sides. Note the location and length of each fastener as they may be different sizes.
4. 4

   Lift and support center console
   With all fasteners removed, carefully lift the rear portion of the center console upward and tilt it back to expose the RCM mounting location on the floor tunnel. Do not disconnect electrical connectors yet. Support the console with a prop or have an assistant hold it to prevent strain on wiring.
5. 5

   Locate airbag control module
   The RCM is a metal box approximately 4x6 inches mounted on the floor tunnel beneath the center console, usually near the transmission hump. It will have a large multi-pin connector and may have a secondary connector. Verify component identification by checking the Ford part label on the module.
6. 6

   Disconnect RCM electrical connectors
   Locate the connector locking mechanism (usually a slider or tab). Slide the connector lock to the unlocked position. Press the release tab while pulling the connector straight away from the module. Do NOT pull on wires. Repeat for all connectors attached to the module. Note connector orientations for reassembly.
   ⚠Handle connectors carefully. Bent pins will prevent proper module operation and may cause system faults.
7. 7

   Remove RCM mounting bolts
   Remove the bolts securing the RCM to its mounting bracket on the floor. Most F-150 models use three or four mounting bolts. Keep bolts organized for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Remove RCM from vehicle
   Carefully lift the RCM out of its mounting location. Inspect the mounting bracket for damage, corrosion, or loose attachment to the floor. Check the ground connection point for cleanliness and tight contact. The bracket must be securely mounted for proper module grounding.
9. 9

   Inspect and prepare new RCM
   Remove new RCM from packaging. Verify part number matches vehicle application. Inspect connectors on new module for shipping damage or debris. Do NOT remove protective caps from connectors until ready to install. Check that mounting bracket is clean and free of paint or corrosion at ground contact points.
   ⚠Never install a used or salvaged RCM. These modules may contain crash data or hidden damage that prevents proper operation in a collision.
10. 10

    Install new RCM to mounting bracket
    Position the new RCM onto the mounting bracket ensuring proper alignment with all mounting holes. Install mounting bolts finger-tight first to ensure proper threading, then torque to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Connect RCM electrical connectors
    Remove protective caps from module connectors. Align each connector with its corresponding receptacle on the module, ensuring correct orientation. Push connectors straight onto module until they click into place. Slide connector locks to the locked position. Verify each connector is fully seated by attempting to pull it off - it should not move.
    ⚠Ensure connector locks are fully engaged. Partially connected modules will cause airbag warning lights and system failure.
12. 12

    Reinstall center console assembly
    Lower the center console back into position, routing all wiring harnesses to their original locations without pinching. Install all mounting screws to secure console. Do not overtighten plastic-threaded fasteners. Reinstall trim panels and cupholders, ensuring all clips engage properly.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect positive battery terminal first, then negative terminal. Torque terminal bolts to specification. Do not overtighten as this can damage battery posts.
    Torque spec

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

    Program and configure RCM
    Connect professional scan tool. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine). Access RCM programming module. Program the new RCM with the vehicle VIN and configuration data. Follow all scan tool prompts. This process typically takes 10-15 minutes and must complete without interruption.
    ⚠️RCM programming is MANDATORY. An unprogrammed module will not deploy airbags in a crash. Do not skip this step.
15. 15

    Clear fault codes and verify system operation
    After programming is complete, clear all airbag system diagnostic trouble codes using the scan tool. Turn ignition OFF, wait 10 seconds, then turn ignition to ON. Observe the airbag warning light on the instrument cluster - it should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds then turn OFF. If light stays on or flashes, retrieve codes and diagnose before returning vehicle to service.

Reassembly

1. Verify all center console trim panels are properly clipped and secured
2. Check that no wiring is pinched between console components
3. Return front seats to normal positions
4. Test all console functions including power outlets, storage compartments, and armrest operation

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify airbag warning light performs normal self-test (illuminates then turns OFF after 6 seconds)
• Use scan tool to verify no diagnostic trouble codes are present in the RCM
• Verify scan tool shows all airbag system components as present and communicating (driver airbag, passenger airbag, side airbags, seat belt pretensioners, crash sensors)
• Confirm RCM programming matches vehicle VIN and configuration
• Test drive vehicle and verify airbag warning light remains OFF during all driving conditions
• Document completion of repair including new module part number and programming date for vehicle service records

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