AE06 - Airbag control unit N2/7 defective airbag control unit fault

What does error code AE06 mean in the airbag control unit?

AE06 is the entry for a faulty airbag control unit, on Mercedes-Benz the restraint systems control unit. The central electronics of the airbag system no longer work without errors. As a result, the restraint system cannot be triggered reliably in an emergency, and the airbag warning light reports the fault.

The readings from the sensors come together in the control unit, and from there the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered. If the unit reports a fault in itself, it stores AE06 in the fault memory and makes the airbag warning light come on. The code on its own does not point to a single sensor or connector.

How do you recognise error code AE06?

Typically the airbag warning light does not go out after the ignition is switched on. AE06 is stored in the fault memory, and the entry does not stay cleared permanently, because the control unit detects the fault again.

• The airbag warning light stays on.
• The fault memory contains AE06 when it is read out with a diagnostic tool.
• Clearing the entry does not help, it is stored again.

What causes error code AE06?

With AE06, the cause lies in the airbag control unit and not in the wiring of the airbags. Ageing of the electronics, crash data and damage on the circuit board are among the possible reasons, as are moisture and voltage spikes.

• Crash data stored in the control unit after an accident
• aged electronic components
• brittle solder joints
• moisture or corrosion in the housing or at the connector
• voltage spikes from a weak battery or a jump start

A test on the removed unit shows which of these applies.

In which vehicles does error code AE06 occur?

Error code AE06 occurs on Mercedes-Benz, namely on the E-Class W211, C-Class W203 and CLK-Class C209. The list is not complete, and on other vehicles the same message may mean something else. Your fault memory will tell you.

Only reading out the fault memory shows whether your vehicle is affected. An identical code in another model is therefore not automatically a sign of the same fault.

How is error code AE06 resolved?

AE06 is resolved by removing, testing and repairing the airbag control unit. First the entry is confirmed with a diagnostic tool. Then you send the removed control unit to Airbag24, where it is tested, repaired and checked on the test bench before it is returned.

First have the fault memory read out by a specialist workshop. If the control unit is the cause, disconnect the battery, remove the unit and create a repair order online. Then send the control unit to Airbag24. Checking, repairing and testing usually take 3–4 working days. Work on the airbag system belongs in expert hands.

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.