0132 - Internal component fault, initialisation failed airbag control unit fault

What does error code 0132 mean in the airbag control unit?

Error code 0132 reports an internal component fault in the airbag control unit, in which a step during the start-up of the unit has failed. The control unit itself is therefore affected; it is the unit that fires the airbags and the seatbelt pretensioners, stores the fault and switches on the airbag warning light.

The code describes a fault in the control unit itself. The control unit records the fault in the fault memory, and the airbag warning light alerts the driver to the fault.

Because the control unit controls the firing of the airbags and the seatbelt pretensioners, the fault is significant for the safety of the system. As long as the code is stored, it remains an indication that needs checking.

How do you recognise error code 0132?

You recognise error code 0132 by the airbag warning light on the dashboard staying permanently lit as soon as the code is stored in the control unit's fault memory. The code cannot be permanently deleted, and it is read out with a diagnostic tool that queries the fault memory of the airbag control unit.

Whether your vehicle has exactly this code is shown only by reading out the fault memory with a diagnostic tool. The airbag warning light on its own does not yet name a code.

What causes error code 0132?

Error code 0132 arises from internal faults in the airbag control unit itself. The possible causes are crash data after an accident, ageing electronic components, solder joints, moisture or corrosion, and voltage spikes from a weak battery or from jump-starting; which of these applies is shown only by testing the control unit.

• crash data after an accident
• ageing electronic components in the control unit
• solder joints in the control unit
• moisture or corrosion in the control unit
• voltage spikes from a weak battery or from jump-starting

Which of these causes actually applies cannot be determined without testing the control unit. The list names only the possible reasons and does not replace an examination of the individual case.

In which vehicles does error code 0132 occur?

Error code 0132 is known to occur in the Aston Martin brand, namely on the DB7 Mk1, DB9 VH, DBS VH, V12 Vantage VH, Vanquish Mk1 and Vantage VH models. On other vehicles the meaning may differ, and the list is not complete.

Whether your vehicle is affected is shown by comparing its model and model series with this list. Vehicles that are not named here cannot be reliably classified using this page.

How is error code 0132 resolved?

Error code 0132 is resolved by first reading out the fault memory with a diagnostic tool. Because the fault lies in the control unit itself, the unit is removed after the battery has been disconnected, a repair order is created online, the unit is sent to the workshop in Berlin, and there it is checked, repaired and tested.

Reading out the fault memory with a diagnostic tool is the first step, because only then can it be confirmed that the code 0132 is actually stored in the fault memory. Removal follows only after that and always begins with disconnecting the battery.

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.

Safety note: work on the airbag system should be left to qualified professionals.