Airbag control unit with part number 13518661

What does the airbag control unit 13518661 do?

The airbag control unit 13518661 coordinates the restraint system (SRS) for Chevrolet. It processes the signals from the crash sensors, determines in an accident within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and checks the system continuously for faults.

It shows detected faults via the airbag warning light. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 13518661 fail?

The most common cause for the control unit 13518661 is crash data stored after an accident, even without an airbag deployment. A normal diagnostic tool cannot remove it. Other causes include aged components, cold solder joints, moisture, corrosion and voltage spikes.

The entry remains in the fault memory even when the vehicle then drives perfectly again.

Apart from the crash data, several other causes come into question:

• aged electronic components
• cold solder joints
• moisture and corrosion at plug connectors
• voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start

How can you tell that the 13518661 is defective?

The defect in the 13518661 is first indicated by the airbag warning light, which lights up intermittently or permanently. A fault message displayed in the instrument cluster is added. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may fail to deploy.

The light performs a self-test when the ignition is switched on. If it does not go out afterwards or comes back, that is a sign you should have investigated.

A fault message in the instrument cluster complements the light. If there is also no connection to the diagnostic tool, or the fault memory cannot be emptied, clarification is needed.

Which vehicles is the 13518661 fitted in?

The control unit 13518661 is fitted in these vehicles: Chevrolet Malibu 5th generation (2011-2015). Only the fault memory shows whether it is the cause itself.

These vehicles are affected:

• Chevrolet Malibu 5th generation (2011-2015)

A comparison of the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page ensures that you are removing the right unit. However, that is not a function test. Have the fault memory read out before removal, because only this shows whether the control unit is defective or a connector or cable is involved.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 13510482, 13518660.

How does the repair of the 13518661 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log, then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. Then create a repair order online and send the unit in well packed. At Airbag24 processing usually takes 3–4 working days.

The sequence is observed for safety reasons, so the removal takes place only after the battery has been disconnected.

Airbag24 examines the control unit on the test bench, renews defective components, deletes stored crash data and carries out a function test. Then your own, repaired unit is returned to you.

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 13518661 get to Airbag24?

Either you send the control unit 13518661 yourself as a parcel, or you book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns the unit to you by UPS.

Put the printed repair order in the box, and cushion the unit shock-resistant.