Airbag control unit with part number 3891083E01

What does the airbag control unit 3891083E01 do?

The airbag control unit 3891083E01 is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) for Opel. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, decides within fractions of a second in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously. It shows faults via the airbag warning light.

The manufacturer number Continental 5WK42898 is also printed on the housing. After an accident, the unit stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 3891083E01 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed; a standard diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other causes include ageing electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion on plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Which of these causes applies can only be determined by reading the fault memory. Voltage spikes occur, for example, with a weak battery or when jump-starting, and moisture gradually attacks the contacts.

How can you tell that the 3891083E01 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently, an error message appears in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic tool cannot find the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

Look out for the following signs:

• airbag warning light on permanently or only intermittently
• error message in the instrument cluster
• no connection to the diagnostic tool
• fault memory cannot be cleared

Which vehicles is the 3891083E01 fitted in?

The control unit 3891083E01 is fitted in these vehicles: Opel Agila A (2000-2007).

The following list names the vehicles recorded in our data for this part number.

• Opel Agila A (2000-2007)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page; this way you can be sure you have the right unit in front of you. Also have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only the log shows whether the control unit is defective or a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 38910-83E11-000, 38910-84E20-000, 38910-84E22-000, 5WK4 2897, 5WK42899, 9211122.

How does the repair of the 3891083E01 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log, then disconnect the battery, and only then remove the control unit. Online, you create a repair order and send in the unit well packed. At Airbag24, checking, repairing and testing takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, erases stored crash data and performs a function test. After that, your own unit is returned 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 3891083E01 get to Airbag24?

You send the unit in as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge; after the repair, Airbag24 sends it back to you by UPS.

Put the printed repair order into the parcel, and pack the control unit so that it is shockproof.