Pinpoint Test C: The Restraint Control Module (RCM) Does Not Respond To The Diagnostic Tool

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Mountaineer and 2004 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

C1 CHECK THE RCM C310a FOR DAMAGE
- Key in OFF position.
- Deactivate the airbag system. Refer to DISABLING SYSTEM .
- Disconnect: RCM C310a.
- Inspect the RCM C310a for damage.
- Is the RCM C310a OK?
Yes

GO to C2.

No

REPAIR the RCM C310a. CARRY OUT the data link diagnostics test.
C2 CHECK CIRCUIT 70 (LB/WH) BETWEEN THE DLC C251 AND THE RCM C310a FOR AN OPEN
- Measure the resistance between the RCM C310a-11, circuit 70 (LB/WH), harness side and the DLC C251-7, circuit 70 (LB/WH), harness side.
  
  Fig 1: Measuring Resistance Between RCM C310A-11, Circuit 70 (LB/WH), Harness Side And DLC C251-7, Circuit 70 (LB/WH), Harness Side
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
- Is the resistance less than 5 ohms?
Yes

GO to C3.

No

REPAIR the circuit. CLEAR the DTCs. REPEAT the self-test. CARRY OUT the data link diagnostics test.
C3 CHECK FOR CORRECT RCM OPERATION
- Disconnect all the RCM connectors.
- Check for:
  - corrosion
  - push-out pins
- Connect all the RCM connectors and make sure they seat correctly.
- Operate the system and verify the concern is still present.
- Is the concern still present?
Yes

INSTALL a new RCM. REFER to RESTRAINTS CONTROL MODULE (RCM) . CLEAR the DTCs. REPEAT the self-test. CARRY OUT the data link diagnostics test.

No

The system is operating correctly at this time. Concern may have been caused by a loose or corroded connector. CLEAR the DTCs. REPEAT the self-test. CARRY OUT the data link diagnostics test.