Airbag control unit with part number 38910-86RC0

What does the airbag control unit 38910-86RC0 do?

The airbag control unit 38910-86RC0 is the central control unit of the SRS restraint system in Suzuki. It checks the crash sensors, decides in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners fire, and keeps an eye on the system. Faults are reported via the airbag warning light.

After an accident, the unit stores crash data and locks itself. The data is stored in the control unit itself.

Why does the control unit 38910-86RC0 fail?

The most common cause, even when no airbag has deployed, is crash data stored after an accident; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other possible causes include ageing components, dry solder joints, moisture and corrosion on plug connectors, and voltage spikes.

The other causes at a glance:

• ageing electronic components
• dry solder joints
• moisture and corrosion on plug connectors
• voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start

When a failure occurs, hardly anyone thinks of crash data at first, because you cannot see the accident from the unit.

How can you tell that the 38910-86RC0 is defective?

A defect shows up as the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which 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 that state, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not deploy in an emergency.

If you notice these signs, you are right to have the fault memory read out promptly. In this condition, do not rely on the restraint system working.

Which vehicles is the 38910-86RC0 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 38910-86RC0 is fitted in the following vehicles: Suzuki Vitara LY and S.

The vehicles are listed here:

• Suzuki Vitara LY
• Suzuki Vitara S

Comparing the label with this page helps you identify the correct unit, nothing more. Only reading the fault memory before removal shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or cable is behind the fault.

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 38910-86RC0 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log, then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit 38910-86RC0. Next, create a repair order online and send in the unit. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 first checks the unit on the test bench and then replaces defective components. The stored crash data is erased by Airbag24 during this process, followed by the function test.

The order of steps applies for safety reasons and is binding.

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 38910-86RC0 get to Airbag24?

The unit is sent to Airbag24 as a parcel, or you can book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns it by UPS.

Pack the control unit shock-resistant and enclose the printed repair order.