Airbag control unit with part number 285001393

What is the function of Airbag Control Unit 285001393?

The Airbag Control Unit 285001393, also known as 0 285 001 393, is a central control unit manufactured by Bosch for the passive safety system in the Ford Fiesta 4 (1995–1999). It processes data from crash sensors and is responsible for precisely deploying airbags and seatbelt pretensioners in the event of an accident.

As the “brain” of the restraint system, this component continuously monitors all connected sensors and actuators. It ensures that the system responds correctly in an emergency, providing optimal protection for occupants.

In the vehicle, the control unit is typically located on the passenger side, installed behind the glove compartment on the dashboard frame. The distinctive yellow wiring harnesses of the airbag system can serve as a helpful reference for identification.

Why does Control Unit 285001393 fail?

The most common reason for repairing Control Unit 285001393 is the storage of crash data after an accident, which locks the unit. Additionally, internal electronic faults or communication failures can cause malfunctions, indicated by the permanently illuminated airbag warning light.

Following a collision—even a minor one—a so‑called crash record is stored in the unit’s internal memory. For safety reasons, this record disables the device’s functionality and cannot be cleared using standard diagnostic tools. Professional repair is therefore essential.

Control Unit 285001393 belongs to a larger Bosch series for the Ford Fiesta that exhibits similar fault patterns. Related part numbers include 0 285 001 349, 0 285 001 392, and 0 285 001 394. Ford-specific numbers such as YS6T146056BC or 96FG14B056CE are also associated with this component.

How do you recognize a defect in the Airbag Control Unit?

A defective Control Unit 285001393 primarily manifests as the airbag warning light remaining constantly illuminated on the instrument cluster. Other reliable indicators include failure to communicate with diagnostic equipment or the reading of specific error codes such as B1231 (crash data stored) or B1342 (control unit defective).

The most noticeable symptom is the airbag warning lamp, which fails to turn off after starting the vehicle. This signals a serious safety‑system malfunction requiring immediate inspection.

In the workshop, the defect often becomes apparent when no connection can be established with the control unit. Diagnostic tools report “no communication” or “control unit not responding,” indicating a complete failure of the component.

When error codes are read, B1231 (“crash data detected”) or B1342 (“SRS Control Module / control unit defective”) are typical for this part. These errors generally cannot be cleared and necessitate hardware repair.

In which vehicles is Control Unit 285001393 installed?

The Airbag Control Unit with part number 285001393 is specifically designed for Ford models. At Airbag24, we offer this component for repairs on the fourth‑generation Ford Fiesta (Mk4), produced between 1995 and 1999.

At Airbag24, we repair part number 285001393 for the following model:

Ford: Fiesta 4 (model years 1995–1999)

It is important to note that control units within the same model series are not universally interchangeable. Each component is model‑specific, making original‑part repair the safest option to maintain correct vehicle coding.

How does repair proceed at Airbag24?

The repair process at Airbag24 for Control Unit 285001393 begins with a professional analysis. Stored crash data is then erased, and any underlying electronic defects are addressed at the component level. Following a final functional test, you receive your repaired original part back, complete with 2 years’ statutory liability for defects.

Before removal, a specialized workshop should read out the fault memory to rule out external causes such as faulty sensors or wiring issues. Please send us the removed control unit along with the fault log.

Upon receipt at Airbag24, our technicians inspect the unit. Repairs focus on resolving reported issues—whether resetting crash data or restoring electronics—fully restoring the component’s functionality.

This repair represents a significantly more cost‑effective alternative to purchasing an expensive new part (often over €500) while preserving the vehicle’s original coding. A time‑consuming reprogramming process is unnecessary.