Airbag control unit with part number 22729972

What does the airbag control unit 22729972 do?

The airbag control unit 22729972 forms the central control of the restraint system (SRS) in Chevrolet. It reads the signals from the crash sensors, determines within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously. After an accident, it stores crash data and locks itself.

The control unit reports faults via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. To do so, it checks sensors, wiring and the power supply in a continuous cycle.

Why does the control unit 22729972 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag was triggered; a normal diagnostic tool does not erase it. In addition come aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion on plug connectors, and voltage spikes. Airbag24 erases the crash data during the repair.

This connection explains why crash data is central to the fault search. It remains in the memory until it is erased during the repair.

The other causes concern the electronics themselves. Components age, solder joints can go cold, and moisture attacks plug connectors. Voltage spikes arise, for example, from a weak battery or from a jump start.

How can you tell that the 22729972 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently, an error message appears, the diagnostic tool does not find the control unit, or the fault memory cannot be cleared. In this case, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not be able to deploy in an emergency.

The warning light is the clearest sign your vehicle gives. It comes on as soon as the system detects a fault.

When the light comes on, have the fault memory read out. Only then is it clear what the cause is.

Which vehicles is the 22729972 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 22729972 is fitted in these vehicles: Chevrolet Malibu 4th generation (2007-2012). What counts is the control unit with exactly this number, not a device that merely looks similar.

These vehicles are listed below:

• Chevrolet Malibu 4th generation (2007-2012)

On the one hand, you can compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page; that only confirms that it is the right unit. On the other hand, it is worth having the fault memory read out beforehand, because only this record 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 22632245, 22632248.

How does the repair of the 22729972 work?

Have the fault memory read out and enclose the log, then disconnect the battery. Only then remove the control unit, create a repair order online and send the unit in, well packed. Airbag24 checks it on the test bench, repairs defective components, erases stored crash data and carries out a function test.

Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days. Afterwards, your own 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 22729972 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 via UPS. Enclose the printed repair order in the parcel and pack the control unit shockproof.

Use a sturdy box and enough filling material so that the electronics come through transport undamaged.