01226 - Crash data stored, side airbag on driver's side airbag control unit fault

What does error code 01226 mean in the airbag control unit?

Error code 01226 reports that crash data for the side airbag on the driver's side is stored in the airbag control unit. The restraint system on the driver's side is therefore affected, and the control unit stores the fault and switches on the airbag warning light, so that this becomes visible to you in the vehicle.

The message relates to the side airbag on the driver's side. The warning light indicates this condition until the fault has been rectified.

How do you recognise error code 01226?

You recognise error code 01226 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 show which fault is present. Only the read-out fault memory confirms that exactly error code 01226 is stored.

What causes error code 01226?

Error code 01226 is caused by crash data that is stored in the airbag control unit after an accident. Ageing electronic components, soldered joints, moisture and corrosion, as well as voltage spikes from a weak battery or a jump start, also come into question, and the control unit itself can be the cause.

• Crash data from a previous accident that is still stored in the control unit
• Ageing electronic components in the control unit
• Soldered joints with contact problems
• Moisture or corrosion on connectors and circuit boards
• Voltage spikes from a weak battery or a jump start

Which cause applies can only be shown by an examination at a specialist workshop.

In which vehicles does error code 01226 occur?

Error code 01226 occurs with Volkswagen, Cupra and Skoda, for models such as the Golf Cabrio, Golf Variant, T-Roc, Tiguan, Transporter, Leon, Formentor, Born, Tavascan, Elroq, Epiq and Peaq. This also includes commercial vehicles such as the Caravelle, California and LT.

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 01226 resolved?

Error code 01226 is resolved by first reading the fault memory with a diagnostic tool, so that the stored message is known precisely. A specialist workshop then checks the connectors, the lines and the side airbag on the driver's side before a decision is made about the control unit.

If the findings point to a connector, a line or the module of the side airbag, have these parts checked first at a specialist workshop. Work on the airbag system belongs in qualified hands.

If the cause lies in the control unit itself, for example because of stored crash data or an internal fault, 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.