RCM (Restraint Control Module)

What the RCM does on your Ford

Ford and Lincoln call the airbag computer the RCM, the Restraint Control Module. It reads the crash sensors, fires the airbags and pretensioners when the numbers say to, and records every deployment event in permanent memory. That recorded event is what keeps the airbag light on after an accident.

Because the crash data is stored inside the RCM, a generic OBD2 scanner cannot clear it. We reset your original Ford RCM in our shop, wipe the stored crash data and hard fault codes, and send it back reading factory-ready. It keeps the calibration Ford flashed at the factory, so it plugs straight back in and runs the moment you bolt it down.

Where it lives

Where the Ford RCM is located

On most Fords the RCM is mounted under the center console, at the rear edge where the console meets the floor between the front seats. On trucks like the F-150 it sits on the floor pan in that center tunnel area. You remove the console trim to reach it, then unbolt it from the floor bracket.

The orientation matters on a Ford. The RCM has to sit flat and square on its bracket for the system to read crash forces correctly, so it goes back in exactly the way it came out. If the center tunnel took damage in the collision, the bracket has to be straight before the module goes back. Disconnect the battery and let the system discharge before you start.

Common Ford SRS codes

Ford airbag codes we clear every day

Ford uses B-series restraint codes. Deployment and crash-data codes clear with a reset. Some point to a circuit or a part. Scan it and look yours up first.

B1231Driver airbag circuit B1318Battery voltage low B1342ECU is defective B2900Driver seat belt circuit B1213Number of modules low B1932Driver Airbag Circuit Open

Every Ford airbag code, explained

Look up your code

Ford models we service

Ford models we work on every week

From 1996 and newer, we handle the RCM and the seat belts on the whole Ford lineup. These are our regulars.

F-150, F-250 and F-350
Explorer
Escape
Edge
Fusion
Focus
Mustang
Expedition and Ranger

Est. 1997 · Glaze family

What we do for your Ford

We reset your original Ford RCM and clear the stored crash data so the SRS light goes out. We also rebuild Ford single, dual, and triple-stage seat belt pretensioners and free locked retractors. Your factory Ford parts come back restored to original operation.

Module reset Seat belt repair

Other makes

We service every make, 1996 and newer

We run the same restoration work across every make. Here are a few more we handle every week.

Chevrolet

GM runs the SDM module. Silverado, Equinox, Malibu and more.

Chevrolet airbag service →

Dodge

Mopar uses the ORC. Charger, Challenger, Durango and Journey.

Dodge airbag service →

Jeep

Jeep runs the same Mopar ORC. Wrangler, Grand Cherokee and Cherokee.

Jeep airbag service →

Toyota

Toyota uses a center airbag sensor assembly. Camry, Corolla, RAV4.

Toyota airbag service →

See all makes

By model

Popular Ford models we restore

Pick your vehicle for its module location, common fault codes, and exactly what we restore. We handle every Ford from 1996 on, so call if you do not see yours.

Ford EscapeModule reset & belt repair →Ford ExplorerModule reset & belt repair →Ford F-150Module reset & belt repair →Ford F-250Module reset & belt repair →Ford MustangModule reset & belt repair →

Restore your Ford

Get your Ford SRS light off

Mail us your original RCM or seat belt. We clear the crash data, rebuild the pretensioner, and ship your factory part back ready to install.

Shop genuine OEM parts Call 501-988-0611

Ford airbags, seat belts, and modules in stock

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Genuine OEM, tested, and shipped ground from Jacksonville, Arkansas.

Ford parts and codes · Do not see it listed? Request a part or call 501-988-0611.