B2013 - Data record in control unit missing or incomplete airbag control unit fault

What does error code B2013 mean in the airbag control unit?

Error code B2013 reports that a data record in the airbag control unit is missing or incomplete. This internal fault in the data area of the control unit affects the central control of the entire restraint system (SRS), which triggers the airbags in an emergency, and is stored there in the control unit's fault memory.

The control unit stores the fault and switches on the airbag warning light. The light therefore remains visible in the vehicle until the fault has been resolved. The code therefore concerns the control unit itself.

How do you recognise error code B2013?

Error code B2013 can be recognised by the airbag warning light staying on permanently and the code appearing in the control unit's fault memory. It cannot be permanently removed even by clearing it repeatedly, and it is read out with a diagnostic tool that displays the code.

The airbag warning light indicates that a fault is stored in the restraint system. Reading the code out with a diagnostic tool is the next step to confirm it in the fault memory.

What causes error code B2013?

Error code B2013 is caused by a fault in the control unit itself, in which a data record in the data area is missing or incomplete. Such faults arise from mechanical stress, ageing and environmental influences that act directly on the control unit, for example from an accident, moisture or voltage spikes.

• Crash data after an accident
• ageing electronic components in the control unit
• solder joints on the circuit board
• moisture or corrosion
• voltage spikes from a weak battery or a jump start

Which cause applies in a given case only becomes clear once the control unit has been inspected. Until then, the code remains in the fault memory and the airbag warning light stays on. The list names the causes that may apply to this type of fault; it is not a confirmed diagnosis.

In which vehicles does error code B2013 occur?

Error code B2013 occurs in Cupra and Volkswagen vehicles, including the Cupra Born, Cupra Formentor, Cupra Leon, Volkswagen Golf Cabrio, Volkswagen Tiguan and Volkswagen Transporter. The list is not exhaustive, and the meaning of the code may differ in other vehicles.

Models with this code also include the Cupra Ateca, Cupra Tavascan, Volkswagen T-Roc and Volkswagen Caravelle. Whether a particular vehicle is affected can be checked via its fault memory.

How is error code B2013 resolved?

Error code B2013 is resolved by first reading out the fault memory with a diagnostic tool, then inspecting and repairing the control unit. If the cause lies in the control unit, it is removed after the battery has been disconnected and sent in to Airbag24 for repair.

Work on the airbag system should be left to qualified specialists. First, you disconnect the battery; only then do you remove the control unit.

After that, you create a repair order online and send the device in to Airbag24. Inspection, repair 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.