0005 - Battery voltage too low airbag control unit fault

What does error code 0005 mean in the airbag control unit?

Error code 0005 reports that the vehicle's battery voltage is too low, so it affects the power supply of the airbag control unit itself. The control unit stores the fault in the fault memory and therefore switches on the airbag warning light, so the driver is shown a fault in the restraint system.

No single component of the restraint system is directly meant here. The code shows that the power supply to the control unit is insufficient.

How do you recognise error code 0005?

You recognise error code 0005 by the airbag warning light on the dashboard staying on permanently and the code being stored in the fault memory of the airbag control unit. The driver cannot permanently erase this entry, and it is read out with a diagnostic tool that displays the complete fault memory.

The warning light alone does not identify a cause. Only the read-out fault memory confirms that error code 0005 is actually present.

What causes error code 0005?

Error code 0005 is caused by a battery that can no longer hold the required voltage, or by a charging system that does not charge it sufficiently. Dirty connections and too many consumers drawing power with the engine switched off can also lower the voltage far enough for the fault to be stored.

• An ageing or weak battery that can no longer hold sufficient voltage under load
• A charging system that does not charge the battery sufficiently while driving
• Corroded battery terminals or earth connections with increased contact resistance
• Frequent short journeys, in which the battery is hardly recharged
• Electrical consumers that draw power from the battery over a longer period with the engine switched off

Which cause applies can only be shown by measuring the power supply at a specialist workshop. The control unit itself only comes into consideration once the power supply is in order.

In which vehicles does error code 0005 occur?

Error code 0005 is known from Aston Martin, for models such as the Vantage, DBX, DBS, Vanquish, Rapide, Virage and Cygnet. The brand Aston Martin is therefore affected, with several model lines, including variants of older and newer generations.

The meaning may differ for other vehicles, and the list is not complete. Always check the specific vehicle before you take any action.

How is error code 0005 resolved?

Error code 0005 is resolved by first reading the fault memory with a diagnostic tool, so that the stored message is known precisely. Then have a specialist workshop check the battery, the charging system and the connections before deciding whether the control unit itself is affected.

If the findings point to connectors or lines in the power supply, have these checked first at a specialist workshop. Work on the airbag system belongs in qualified hands.

If the cause lies in the control unit itself, first disconnect the battery and then remove the control unit. Then create a repair order online and send the device to Airbag24. Checking, repairing and testing usually take 3–4 working days.

The repaired control unit comes back with all vehicle data and is ready for use as soon as it is refitted — no coding or programming is required.