Airbag control unit with part number 002 820 32 26 (97)

What is the function of the airbag control unit 002 820 32 26 (97)?

The airbag control unit with part number 002 820 32 26 (97), manufactured by Temic, serves as the central control unit for the occupant protection system (SRS) in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210. It processes signals from crash sensors to ensure precise and timely deployment of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners in the event of a collision.

This control unit, also known as the SRS module (Supplemental Restraint System), continuously monitors all components of the restraint system, including various airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, and seat occupancy sensors—such as the passenger-seat occupancy sensor, which is relevant to fault codes B1315 and B1316.

This specific component is the “Armin 9195 Q2” variant. It is essential for the proper functioning of the entire safety system and communicates with other control units in the vehicle. A failure will inevitably result in deactivation of the airbag system and a persistent warning message on the instrument cluster.

What defects occur in 002 820 32 26 (97)?

The most common defects of the control unit 002 820 32 26 (97) are internal electronic malfunctions that trigger error code B1000 (control unit defective), as well as stored crash data following an accident. Aging of electronic components and issues with the power supply (undervoltage at terminal 15R/15) are additional typical causes of failure.

After a crash, the unit permanently stores crash data. This data retention is a manufacturer‑imposed safety measure that locks the control unit, preventing reuse without professional repair. Even after the vehicle has been repaired, the airbag warning light remains illuminated until this data is professionally erased.

Internal hardware defects are a frequent cause of failure, often manifesting as error code B1000 or more specific codes such as B1103/B2D92 (restraint system control unit defective). Such faults may arise from aging components or board‑level defects and cannot be resolved simply by clearing the fault memory.

Problems with the power supply, triggering error N2/7 (undervoltage at terminal 15R/15), can also lead to malfunctions. It is important to consider related part numbers like A0018202326, 000 820 97 26, 001 820 21 26, and 001 820 22 26, as well as the Bosch equivalent 0 285 001 215, since these may present similar fault patterns.

How do you recognize a defect in the control unit 002 820 32 26 (97)?

A defective airbag control unit 002 820 32 26 (97) primarily manifests as a persistently illuminated SRS/Airbag warning light on the instrument cluster. Often, the control unit can no longer be accessed by diagnostic equipment, or stored fault codes—especially the internal B1000 error—cannot be cleared.

The clearest indication is the constantly lit airbag warning light, signaling to the driver that the restraint system is non‑functional and that airbags would not deploy in the event of a crash.

Another clear symptom is the lack of communication: when a specialist workshop attempts to read the fault memory, the diagnostic tool may fail to establish a connection with the SRS control unit, pointing to a severe internal defect.

Even if communication is possible, fault codes often remain unerasable. In particular, errors such as “B1000: Airbag control unit defective” or “B1103/B2D92: Restraint system control unit defective” are stubborn and directly indicate a defect within the device itself requiring repair.

In which vehicles is the control unit 002 820 32 26 (97) installed?

The airbag control unit with part number 002 820 32 26 (97) was specifically developed for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 sedan. These models were produced between 1995 and 2002. At Airbag24, we repair this particular control unit for the aforementioned vehicle series.

At Airbag24, we have mapped and successfully refurbished the control unit 002 820 32 26 (97) for the following model:

Mercedes-Benz: E-Class W210 Sedan (1995–2002)

It is crucial to verify the part number on the unit before removal to ensure compatibility. According to the manufacturer, the control unit is located beneath the ashtray, in front of the gear selector lever within the center console.

How does the repair of the control unit 002 820 32 26 (97) proceed?

Repair at Airbag24 focuses on addressing the root causes, such as erasing crash data and fixing internal electronic faults. Upon receipt, the unit is thoroughly analyzed; defective components are replaced, the device’s software is restored to factory settings, and functionality is subsequently verified on a test bench.

Before removing the control unit, a specialized workshop should read out the fault memory to confirm that the defect lies in the control unit itself and not in an external component. A diagnostic report should be included with the shipment. When removing the unit, be sure to disconnect the battery to minimize risks.

Upon receipt at Airbag24, the control unit undergoes an initial inspection. Technicians examine the circuit board for visible damage and perform electronic measurements. Depending on the nature of the fault, stored crash data is erased, the unit is reprogrammed, or defective electronic components are professionally replaced.

Following repair, a comprehensive functional test is conducted. Only after the control unit passes all tests successfully is it approved for return shipment. This repair offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to expensive new purchases and is plug-and-play, eliminating the need for additional vehicle coding. We provide 2 years' statutory liability for defects on every repair.