Airbag Module/Computer

Remove and replace the airbag control module (ACM) located under the center console, requiring proper scan tool procedures for deployment detection and system recalibration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Airbag Control Module (ACM) × 1 — Use OEM specification - must be VIN-programmed
• Console trim panel clips (if damaged) × 1 — As needed

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. Disconnect negative battery terminal using 10mm wrench
4. Disconnect positive battery terminal using 10mm wrench
5. Wait minimum 3 minutes to allow airbag system capacitors to fully discharge
6. Connect diagnostic scan tool and document all existing fault codes before beginning work
7. If module is being replaced due to deployment, check with insurance/legal requirements regarding crash data retrieval
8. Ensure replacement module part number matches original and is blank/unprogrammed for VIN coding

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove center console trim panels
   Starting at rear of center console, carefully pry up rear trim panel using trim tools. Work from rear to front, releasing clips. Remove cup holder trim panel by lifting upward. Remove gear selector trim ring by pulling upward carefully to release clips. Take care not to damage leather or wood trim surfaces.
2. 2

   Access lower console mounting points
   Remove T20 Torx screws securing console side panels (2 per side, 4 total). Remove forward console trim panel around climate controls by releasing clips at bottom edge and pulling gently forward. Disconnect any electrical connectors for heated seat switches or USB ports as panels are removed.
3. 3

   Remove center console assembly
   Locate and remove T30 Torx bolts securing console to floor tunnel (typically 4-6 bolts). With assistant supporting console weight, carefully lift console assembly upward and rearward. Disconnect remaining electrical connections underneath including power outlet and any lighting. Set console aside in safe location.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Locate and access airbag control module
   ACM is mounted to transmission tunnel under center console, typically on driver side of tunnel. Module is aluminum housing with large multi-pin connector. Remove protective cover or shield if present by removing T20 Torx screws. Visually inspect module and mounting area for signs of water intrusion, corrosion, or physical damage.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Disconnect module electrical connector
   Locate yellow SRS connector lock on main ACM connector. Slide or rotate lock mechanism to unlock position (design varies by model year). Carefully pull connector straight away from module - do not rock or twist. Inspect connector pins and terminals for corrosion, damage, or bent pins. If connector shows corrosion, clean with electrical contact cleaner and allow to dry completely.
6. 6

   Disconnect ground strap
   Locate ground strap bolted to module mounting bracket and chassis. Using 10mm socket, remove ground strap bolt. Clean both ground contact surfaces with wire brush to bare metal, removing all corrosion, paint, or oxidation. This ground connection is critical for proper airbag system function.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove airbag control module
   Remove module mounting bolts using T30 Torx driver (typically 3-4 bolts). Carefully withdraw module from mounting bracket. Note orientation and any alignment features for new module installation. Inspect mounting bracket for damage or distortion. If module was deployed or involved in collision, bracket may need replacement.
   Torque spec

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

   Install new airbag control module
   Position new module in mounting bracket, ensuring proper orientation matches original. Module typically has keying features to prevent incorrect installation. Verify part number on new module matches original. Install mounting bolts finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment, then torque in cross-pattern sequence to specification.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect ground strap
   Install ground strap to module bracket and chassis ground point. Ensure cleaned contact surfaces mate properly with no paint or corrosion between surfaces. Install ground strap bolt and torque to specification. Verify ground connection is tight and secure with no movement.
   Torque spec

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

    Reconnect module electrical connector
    Align connector with module pins carefully, ensuring proper orientation. Press connector firmly onto module until fully seated - you should feel/hear a positive click. Engage connector lock mechanism to secure position. Gently pull on connector to verify it is fully locked and will not come loose.
11. 11

    Reinstall center console assembly
    With assistant, position console assembly over transmission tunnel. Reconnect all electrical connections underneath (power outlets, lighting, heated seats). Align console mounting holes with floor tunnel threaded inserts. Install mounting bolts and torque to specification in cross-pattern sequence.
    Torque spec

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

    Reconnect battery and perform initial power-up
    Reconnect positive battery terminal first, then negative terminal. Torque battery terminal bolts to specification - do not overtighten aluminum terminals. Turn ignition to ON position (engine off). Airbag warning light should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds during self-test, then extinguish. If light remains on or flashes, do not proceed - system has detected fault.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Program and calibrate new module
    Connect diagnostic scan tool with airbag system access. Perform VIN coding/programming procedure specific to Maserati ACM (requires dealer-level software or equivalent). Program module with vehicle VIN, configuration data, and crash sensor calibrations. This step is ESSENTIAL and cannot be skipped - unprogrammed module will not function correctly.
14. 14

    Clear fault codes and verify system operation
    Using scan tool, clear all airbag system fault codes. Perform complete system self-diagnostic check. Verify all airbag circuits show proper resistance values and all sensors communicate correctly. Check that crash data memory is clear (unless preserving pre-existing crash data). Confirm airbag warning light extinguishes after ignition cycle.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall all center console trim panels in reverse order of removal, ensuring all clips are fully seated
2. Reconnect any electrical connections for switches, USB ports, and lighting
3. Verify all trim panels are secure with no rattles or gaps
4. Test all console functions including heated seats, power outlets, and storage compartments

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position - airbag warning light should illuminate briefly (approximately 6 seconds) then extinguish completely
• Using scan tool, verify no active or pending airbag system fault codes are present
• Confirm scan tool shows all airbag sensors and circuits are communicating properly
• Verify crash data memory shows no stored deployments (unless intentionally preserved)
• Check that airbag warning light does not illuminate during test drive under various conditions
• Document completion of programming/calibration with scan tool printout or screenshot
• Verify all trim panels are secure and all console functions operate normally
• CRITICAL: If airbag warning light remains illuminated or any fault codes are present, vehicle is NOT SAFE to drive - further diagnosis required

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