Airbag control unit with part number 38910-86R20

What does the airbag control unit 38910-86R20 do?

The 38910-86R20 forms the central control of the airbag system (SRS) at Suzuki. It records via the crash sensors what happens in a collision and decides within milliseconds whether airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered.

In normal operation, it monitors the system and shows faults via the airbag warning light. The unit works without any intervention by the driver.

After an accident, it stores crash data. It then stays locked.

Why does the control unit 38910-86R20 fail?

Stored crash data is the most common cause for the 38910-86R20, even if no airbag fired in the accident. A standard diagnostic tool does not erase it. In addition, ageing components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion on plugs, as well as voltage spikes from a weak battery or a jump start, can disturb the unit.

The data stays in the memory until it is removed during a repair, and it keeps the fault alive. At first sight this looks like an unexplained defect, although the unit has merely recorded the accident.

Ageing, cold solder joints and moisture on the plugs also belong to the picture. Voltage spikes from a weak battery or a jump start round this off.

How can you tell that the 38910-86R20 is defective?

In the event of a defect in the 38910-86R20, the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster stays on permanently or intermittently. In addition, a fault message appears in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic tool finds no connection and the fault memory cannot be cleared.

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not trigger. These signs are a reason to have the system checked promptly.

Which vehicles is the 38910-86R20 fitted in?

At Suzuki, the 38910-86R20 was installed in these vehicles: Suzuki Vitara LY and S.

The vehicles are listed here:

• Suzuki Vitara LY
• Suzuki Vitara S

Compare the part number on the label of your removed unit with this page. This comparison only ensures that you have the correct unit. Before that, have the fault memory read out, because only its content shows whether the control unit itself is defective or whether a plug or cable is behind it.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 16244579, 38910-54P00, 3891052D10, 3891065J50, 3891086R00, 3F900-76S00.

How does the repair of the 38910-86R20 work?

First read out the fault memory and attach the log to the order. Then disconnect the battery, remove the control unit 38910-86R20 and create a repair order online. Then send the unit well packed.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components and erases stored crash data. After a function test, your own unit is returned to you.

Allow 3–4 working days at Airbag24 for inspection, repair and testing.

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 38910-86R20 get to Airbag24?

The control unit 38910-86R20 reaches Airbag24 either as a parcel or, for an extra charge, by booking a UPS collection. The return after the repair is made by UPS.

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