Airbag control unit with part number 0285010251

What does the airbag control unit 0285010251 do?

In the BMW the airbag control unit 0285010251 controls the restraint system (SRS). The crash sensors continuously supply it with data, from which it determines within milliseconds in a crash whether airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

Outside an accident the unit monitors the entire system. It checks cables, power supply and firing circuits and writes every fault to the memory. The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster informs you about it.

The lock after an accident does not stand out in everyday driving. It only becomes visible when reading out with the diagnostic tool.

Why does the control unit 0285010251 fail?

Crash data that remains stored after an accident is the most common cause, even if no airbag has deployed; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other possible causes are aged components, cold solder joints, moisture at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

The crash data records that an accident event took place. This applies regardless of whether an airbag or a seatbelt pretensioner actually fired.

The other causes mainly affect the electronics themselves. Solder joints can lose contact over time, moisture and corrosion impair plug connections, and voltage spikes when starting or from a weak battery stress the unit.

How can you tell that the 0285010251 is defective?

A defect shows up as the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster staying on permanently or intermittently, as a fault message in the instrument cluster, as a lack of connection from the diagnostic tool to the control unit, or as a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

The warning light is the most conspicuous sign. If it stays on permanently or intermittently, that is a clear indication of a fault. A fault message in the instrument cluster may appear alongside it. If the diagnostic tool cannot connect to the control unit, or the fault memory remains full despite an erase attempt, a fault in the system is also possible.

In such a state, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not deploy in an emergency. Please have the system checked promptly.

Which vehicles is the 0285010251 fitted in?

The control unit 0285010251 is fitted in these vehicles: BMW 1 Series E88 LCI Convertible (2011-2013) and E88 Convertible (2008-2011). Whether your model is among them can be seen in the list below.

The individual vehicles:

• BMW 1 Series E88 LCI Convertible (2011-2013)
• BMW 1 Series E88 Convertible (2008-2011)

Before removal, compare the part number on the label with this page. That only shows you that you have the right unit, nothing more. Also have the fault memory read out. Only the log shows whether the control unit itself is defective or whether a connector or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 0 285 010 255, 65 77 9 189 906, 65 77 9 214 812, 6577-6964607-01, 65779134280, 65779171925.

How does the repair of the 0285010251 work?

The fault memory is read out first, and the log comes with the unit. You disconnect the battery afterwards, and only then remove the control unit. You create the repair order online; processing at Airbag24 takes 3–4 working days as a rule.

This sequence is for safety reasons. Please keep to it strictly.

At Airbag24 the control unit is examined on the test bench. Defective components are replaced, stored crash data is erased and a function test is finally carried out. Afterwards you receive your own unit back.

Our repairs come with 2 years' statutory liability for defects. 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.

How does the control unit 0285010251 get to Airbag24?

Either you send the control unit as a parcel, or you book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns it to you by UPS.

The printed repair order belongs in the parcel. Make sure the packaging is shock-proof.