Airbag control unit with part number 13578321

What does the airbag control unit 13578321 do?

The airbag control unit 13578321 is the central processing unit of the restraint system (SRS) of Chevrolet. It reads the signals from the crash sensors, selects the appropriate airbags and seatbelt pretensioners within milliseconds in a crash, and checks the system continuously.

If the system reports a fault, the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up. This keeps the fault visible to the driver.

After a crash, the unit stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 13578321 fail?

The most common cause is crash data that remains in memory after an accident, even if no airbag has fired. A standard diagnostic tool cannot reach it. Other causes include aged components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Crash data remains the most important point. It cannot be seen from outside, so a look at the vehicle does not reveal it. The further causes include these points:

• aged electronic components
• cold solder joints on the circuit board
• moisture and corrosion at plug connections
• voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump-start

Which cause applies in an individual case is shown only by evaluating the fault memory.

How can you tell that the 13578321 is defective?

A defect becomes visible when the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up continuously or intermittently, an error message appears in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic tool cannot establish a connection, or the fault memory cannot be cleared.

The airbag warning light is the most important sign. It indicates a fault in the restraint system, but does not say whether the control unit itself is affected. Plugs and cables are possible causes too.

As long as the fault persists, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not fire in an emergency. The warning light makes the fault visible, so a prompt check is worthwhile.

Which vehicles is the 13578321 fitted in?

The control unit 13578321 is fitted in these vehicles: Chevrolet Camaro 5th generation (2009-2013) and 5th generation Facelift (2013-2016). This information helps narrow things down, but remains an indication and not a test of the unit.

The following list shows the vehicles for which we have this part number.

• Chevrolet Camaro 5th generation (2009-2013)
• Chevrolet Camaro 5th generation Facelift (2013-2016)

First compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This only ensures that you have the right unit. Also have the fault memory read out before removal, because only this log shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 13510817, 13575447, 22922716.

How does the repair of the 13578321 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log with the unit. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Then create a repair order online and send the unit in well packed. Airbag24 usually needs 3–4 working days for processing.

At Airbag24 the unit is first examined on the test bench. Defective components are then repaired, stored crash data is erased, and the repair concludes with a function test. Only then does your own unit go back to you.

The steps on the vehicle follow a fixed order because they serve safety. Keep to this order.

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 13578321 get to Airbag24?

You send the unit as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, your own unit is returned to you by UPS.

Pack the printed repair order into the parcel and pack the unit shock-resistant. A well-padded packaging protects it on the way.