Burns Investigation has the equipment and training to download crash information from automobile Airbag Control Modules (ACM), also referred to as “black boxes”. I can provide complete ACM data retrieval and analysis. Don’t forget to obtain this valuable crash data before it is destroyed or replaced.

 

Click here for a list of supported vehicles

What is the Airbag Control Module (ACM)?

The Airbag Control Modules (ACM) are often referred to as “Black Boxes” but they are not a “black box” in the sense of the word, this name helps simplify the explanation of this device. The ACM’s primary function is to decide if an airbag should be deployed when appropriate conditions are met. If an appropriate condition is met, the ACM, depending on vehicle manufacturer can record information such as: vehicle speed; engine speed; brake status; throttle position; driver’s seat belt status; and delta V.

Airbag module
 

What vehicles have these Modules?

At the current time only a few manufacturers have allowed access to these modules and they are:
GM vehicles 1994 to present; Ford vehicles from 2001 to present; Chrysler (select) 2004 to present; and some Isuzu, Mitsubishi, and Suzuki vehicles of various years to present.

How is the data retrieved?

The data tool for downloading the ACM and Ford PCM (power train control module) is the Bosch Crash Data Retrieval system. The data can be downloaded directly from the vehicle through the DLC (direct link connector) or from the airbag control module. Only trained certified personnel should perform any retrieval of the information as a non-trained person could destroy the data if it is not downloaded properly, this is especially critical on Ford vehicles with PCM data.

Bosch CDR kit

 

Here are some examples of crash data downloads:

Ford Sample

Chrysler Sample

GM Sample

 

Why download the module?

Valuable information is contained on the module, such as vehicle speed, brake application, steering angle, seat belt status, engine speed, etc. If the airbag deployed, the information on the module is locked in most situations and can’t be overwritten. This information must be obtained as soon as possible as it is a valuable tool to the accident reconstructionist that aids in his analysis of a collision. Once the vehicle has been repaired or destroyed at a salvage yard, you have lost valuable crash related data.

 

Mr. Burns has received specialized training from Vetronix and Bosch in the use of this specialized equipment and in the analysis of the retrieved data.