Airbag control unit with part number 23183542

What does the airbag control unit 23183542 do?

The airbag control unit 23183542 is the switching point of the restraint system (SRS) in Chevrolet vehicles. It processes the signals from the crash sensors, determines within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system permanently. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

Faults are shown via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, so you notice a malfunction quickly.

Why does the control unit 23183542 fail?

Stored crash data is the most common cause of failure for 23183542, and this also applies when no airbag has deployed. Other possible causes include aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

A standard diagnostic tool cannot erase this crash data. Airbag24 erases it during the repair.

Voltage spikes occur, for example, when the battery is weak or when a jump-start is given.

How can you tell that the 23183542 is defective?

A defect in the 23183542 shows up as the airbag warning light, which burns permanently or intermittently. Fault messages and irregularities on the diagnostic tool are added to this.

• Airbag warning light in the instrument cluster burns permanently or intermittently
• Fault message in the instrument cluster
• Diagnostic tool receives no connection to the control unit
• Fault memory cannot be cleared

In that case there is a risk that airbags and seatbelt pretensioners do not deploy in a crash.

Which vehicles is the 23183542 fitted in?

The control unit 23183542 is fitted in these vehicles: Chevrolet Cobalt 1st generation (2004-2010).

The following vehicles are assigned in detail:

• Chevrolet Cobalt 1st generation (2004-2010)

Comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page only confirms that it is the right unit. Having the fault memory read out beforehand is the decisive step, because only it 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 15249432, 22729009, 22729011.

How does the repair of the 23183542 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log to the unit. Then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit 23183542. Only now create a repair order online and send in the well-packed unit.

Airbag24 examines the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, erases the stored crash data and carries out a function test. The unit is then returned to you.

For checking, repairing and testing, Airbag24 usually allows 3–4 working days. Your steps and the shipping are not included.

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 23183542 get to Airbag24?

You can send the unit as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. Airbag24 returns the unit to you by UPS after the repair.

Enclose the printed repair order in the parcel and secure the control unit against shocks.