Airbag control unit with part number 38910-66D20

What does the airbag control unit 38910-66D20 do?

The airbag control unit 38910-66D20 is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) for Chevrolet. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, determines the triggering of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners in an accident, and monitors the system permanently.

The unit shows faults in the system via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. The fault memory records the entries so that a diagnostic tool can read them out.

After an accident, the control unit stores crash data and locks itself. It is the repair that ends this lock.

Why does the control unit 38910-66D20 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag was triggered. Other causes include aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes. A normal diagnostic tool cannot erase the crash data.

The other causes at a glance:

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

Whether one of these causes is present only becomes clear during the check on the test bench. Airbag24 erases the crash data during the repair.

How can you tell that the 38910-66D20 is defective?

A fault is recognised by the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which stays on permanently or only at times. Fault messages in the instrument cluster, no connection to the diagnostic tool and a fault memory that cannot be cleared can also occur.

If the diagnostic tool does not establish a connection to the control unit, the cause may lie in the unit itself or in the wiring between them.

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy. The warning light is therefore a clear reason to have the system checked promptly.

Which vehicles is the 38910-66D20 fitted in?

The control unit 38910-66D20 is fitted in these vehicles: Chevrolet Tracker 2nd generation (1999-2004).

The vehicles assigned to this part number are listed below.

• Chevrolet Tracker 2nd generation (1999-2004)

Comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page only ensures that the right unit is being sent. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only its result 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 38910-66D10.

How does the repair of the 38910-66D20 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the report, then disconnect the battery and only afterwards remove the control unit. Next, create a repair order online and send the unit in well packed. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

The sequence serves safety during removal and is therefore binding. Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, erases the crash data and carries out a function test.

Afterwards, your own unit goes back 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 38910-66D20 get to Airbag24?

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

The printed repair order goes into the parcel, and the unit is packed shock-proof.