Airbag control unit with part number 13246043

What does the airbag control unit 13246043 do?

As the central computer of the restraint system (SRS) in Opel, the airbag control unit 13246043 evaluates the crash sensors, determines within milliseconds whether airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered in an accident, and monitors the system continuously. It shows faults via the airbag warning light.

While driving, it constantly evaluates the signals and checks components for plausibility. It writes any irregularities to the fault memory.

After an accident, the unit stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 13246043 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed; a standard diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other causes include ageing electronics, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

The other causes in detail:

• Ageing electronic components
• Cold solder joints
• Moisture and corrosion at plug connections
• Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start

The crash data stays in memory even once the vehicle is driving normally again. That is why it is worth asking about any earlier accident during every fault search.

How can you tell that the 13246043 is defective?

A defect shows up as the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which lights up permanently or intermittently, and as fault messages in the instrument cluster. In addition, the diagnostic tool cannot connect to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

The warning light in particular affects the entire restraint system. It therefore deserves prompt attention.

If the diagnostic tool cannot connect, the cause cannot be narrowed down until the fault memory has been read out.

Which vehicles is the 13246043 fitted in?

The control unit 13246043 is fitted in these vehicles: Opel Astra H (2004-2009).

The assignment known to us appears in this list:

• Opel Astra H (2004-2009)

Hold the part number from the label of the removed unit next to this page. That only confirms you have the right unit, but says nothing about its condition. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, because the log shows whether the control unit itself is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 13 181 977 DU, 13 188 857, 13 249 347 ST, 13 251 080 EC, 13 251 081, 13 251 084 EH.

How does the repair of the 13246043 work?

You have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then you disconnect the battery and afterwards remove the control unit. Online, you create a repair order, then send in the well-packed unit.

Airbag24 tests the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, erases stored crash data and runs a function test. Your own unit is then sent back to you.

The sequence protects you during removal. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days, and this time covers only testing, repairing and checking. 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 13246043 get to Airbag24?

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

Put the printed repair order into the parcel and pack the unit shock-resistant.