This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the airbag control module (ACM) located under the center console of a 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 with 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Airbag control module (ACM) × 1 — Use OEM specification - Part number specific to vehicle VIN

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key fob from vehicle interior
3. Open driver door and leave it open throughout the procedure (prevents accidental lock-out)
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal first, then positive terminal
5. Wait minimum 90 seconds after battery disconnect for complete airbag system capacitor discharge - set a timer
6. Move driver and front passenger seats fully forward for center console access
7. Ensure you have a replacement ACM that matches your vehicle VIN and model year

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove front center console trim panel
   Using plastic trim removal tools, carefully pry up the front section of the center console trim panel starting from the cup holder area. Release the retaining clips by working around the perimeter. Lift the panel upward and remove it from the console. Disconnect any electrical connectors for USB ports or auxiliary power outlets if equipped.
2. 2

   Remove center console side trim panels
   Remove the trim panels on both sides of the center console. These are typically held by plastic clips. Gently pull outward from the bottom edge to release clips, then lift upward to remove. This provides access to the console mounting bolts.
3. 3

   Remove console mounting bolts
   Locate and remove the center console mounting bolts using a 10mm socket. There are typically 4 bolts: two near the front (under the trim panel removed in step 1) and two toward the rear near the cup holders. Keep these bolts organized for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Lift and reposition center console
   Carefully lift the rear portion of the center console upward and toward the rear of the vehicle. You do not need to fully remove the console - just lift it enough to access the area underneath where the ACM is mounted. The shift lever and parking brake will limit movement, but sufficient access can be gained.
   ⚠Be careful not to strain wiring harnesses connected to the console. Do not force the console beyond its natural range of movement.
5. 5

   Locate the airbag control module
   The ACM is a metal box mounted to the floor tunnel beneath the center console, typically just forward of the cup holder area. It will have a large multi-pin yellow connector (airbag system standard color coding). Use a flashlight to clearly identify the module and its mounting configuration.
6. 6

   Disconnect ACM electrical connector
   Locate the yellow connector lock tab on the ACM connector. Press or slide the lock mechanism to release it (design varies by model year). Carefully pull the connector straight out from the module. Do not bend or twist the connector. Inspect connector pins for any damage or corrosion.
   ⚠️Ensure battery has been disconnected for at least 90 seconds before touching any airbag system connectors.
7. 7

   Remove ACM mounting bolts
   Remove the mounting bolts securing the ACM to the floor tunnel. These are typically 10mm bolts. Note the exact position and orientation of the module for proper installation of the replacement unit.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove old ACM
   Carefully remove the airbag control module from its mounting location. Handle the module gently and avoid any impact or dropping. Place the old module in a safe location with the connector side facing upward, away from any metal objects or potential static sources.
9. 9

   Install new ACM
   Position the new airbag control module in the mounting location, ensuring it is oriented exactly as the original unit was positioned. Verify that the mounting surface is clean and free of debris. The module should sit flat against the mounting surface.
10. 10

    Install ACM mounting bolts
    Install the mounting bolts and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Proper torque is critical to ensure good grounding of the module.
    ⚠Do not overtighten mounting bolts. Proper torque ensures electrical grounding without damaging the module housing.
    Torque spec

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

    Connect ACM electrical connector
    Carefully align the yellow electrical connector with the ACM connector port. Push the connector straight in until you hear or feel a positive click. Engage the connector lock mechanism fully. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked.
12. 12

    Reinstall center console
    Lower the center console back into its original position. Ensure no wiring is pinched or strained. Install and torque the console mounting bolts to specification. Reinstall the side trim panels and front trim panel, ensuring all clips are properly engaged.
    ⚠Verify all wiring harnesses and connectors are properly routed and not pinched before fully securing console.
13. 13

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

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

    Program and initialize ACM
    Using an OBD-II scan tool with airbag system capabilities, program the new ACM with the vehicle VIN and configuration data. This step typically requires Toyota Techstream software or equivalent dealer-level diagnostic tool. Follow the scan tool prompts to complete initialization and calibration.
    ⚠️The ACM MUST be properly programmed before the vehicle is driven. An unprogrammed or incorrectly programmed ACM will not deploy airbags in a crash.

Reassembly

1. Verify all center console trim panels are securely clipped in place with no gaps
2. Return front seats to normal driving positions
3. Ensure all console-mounted accessories (USB ports, power outlets) are functioning

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine initially) and observe the airbag warning light on the instrument cluster
• The airbag light should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds during system self-test, then turn OFF
• If the airbag light remains ON, flashes, or does not illuminate at all, DO NOT drive the vehicle - diagnose and resolve the issue immediately
• Use scan tool to verify no airbag system DTCs are present and all airbag components show 'ready' status
• Confirm the airbag warning light stays OFF when engine is running and during a short test drive
• Document the ACM replacement in vehicle service records including part number, date, and mileage

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