Airbag control unit with part number 04896176AE

What does the airbag control unit 04896176AE do?

The airbag control unit 04896176AE is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) for Dodge. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors and decides in an accident, within milliseconds, which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered.

In addition, it monitors the system continuously. If it detects a fault, it shows this via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

After an accident the unit stores crash data and locks itself. The number Bosch 0285010376 is also printed on the housing.

Why does the control unit 04896176AE fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag was triggered. Aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes also come into consideration.

The crash data remains in memory even if the airbags stayed quiet, and a standard diagnostic tool cannot reach it. The other causes concern the electronics inside the unit and the connections to the outside.

Voltage spikes occur, for example, with a weak battery or when jump-starting. Which cause is actually present is determined by the inspection at Airbag24.

How can you tell that the 04896176AE is defective?

A defect shows itself in the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, in error messages there, or in the diagnostic tool failing to connect to the control unit.

• airbag warning light stays on constantly or intermittently
• error message in the instrument cluster
• diagnostic tool cannot connect to the control unit
• fault memory cannot be cleared

If the fault persists, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly fail to trigger in an emergency. Therefore have the system checked promptly if the warning light is on.

Which vehicles is the 04896176AE fitted in?

The control unit 04896176AE is fitted in these vehicles: Dodge Dakota 3rd generation (2004-2007) and 3rd generation Facelift (2007-2011).

The vehicles at a glance:

• Dodge Dakota 3rd generation (2004-2007)
• Dodge Dakota 3rd generation Facelift (2007-2011)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. The comparison only confirms that you have the right unit in front of you.

Also have the fault memory read out beforehand. Only this result shows whether the control unit itself is defective or whether a plug or a cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 4896176AE, 4896176AF, 56043074AA, 56043074AB, 56043252AA, 56043275AI.

How does the repair of the 04896176AE work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit; then create a repair order online and send in the well-packed unit.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, repairs or replaces defective components, erases the stored crash data and carries out a function test. Afterwards the unit comes back to you.

Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days. 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 04896176AE get to Airbag24?

You send the unit as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair Airbag24 returns it by UPS.

Place the printed repair order in the parcel and pack the unit shock-proof.