Airbag control unit with part number 22709901

What does the airbag control unit 22709901 do?

The airbag control unit 22709901 is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) of Chevrolet. In an accident it evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, decides within milliseconds on triggering airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, and monitors the system constantly.

If the system detects a fault, it indicates it via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

The unit records the sensor data, calculates the triggering and reports faults. Without this control the restraint system does not work reliably.

Why does the control unit 22709901 fail?

The cause is most often found in stored crash data. They arise after an accident, even if no airbag was triggered, and an ordinary diagnostic tool does not remove them from the memory. Aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start, are also possible causes.

Stored data remain in the unit until they are deliberately removed. Aged components and corrosion on contacts impair function over a longer period.

Voltage spikes additionally stress the electronics and can encourage faults. Moisture in plug connections creates transition resistances that gradually become noticeable.

How can you tell that the 22709901 is defective?

A defect first becomes noticeable at the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, once it lights up intermittently or permanently. Accompanying this, a message appears in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic tool finds no control unit, and the fault memory stays in place.

Until the cause is established, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly fail to trigger in an emergency. The display therefore concerns the entire restraint system.

That an entry is stored says nothing yet about its severity. Only the readout makes the finding tangible, and the warning light is there precisely to make a defect visible.

Which vehicles is the 22709901 fitted in?

The 22709901 is used in these vehicles: Chevrolet Cobalt 1st generation (2004-2010).

The individual vehicles are listed below:

• Chevrolet Cobalt 1st generation (2004-2010)

Comparing labels and reading out the fault memory are two different steps. The part number on the removed unit shows whether it is the matching one. The fault memory, on the other hand, shows whether the control unit itself is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause. Have it read out before removal.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 15249432, 22729009, 22729011.

How does the repair of the 22709901 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log to the unit; then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. Create the repair order online and send in the well-packed unit. Airbag24 tests, repairs and erases crash data and checks the unit; for this, 3–4 working days are usually planned.

Follow this order, because the readout comes before any work on the battery.

Defective components are repaired at Airbag24, stored crash data are erased, and a function test follows. After that 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 22709901 get to Airbag24?

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

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