Airbag control unit with part number 51783816

What does the airbag control unit 51783816 do?

The airbag control unit 51783816 controls the SRS restraint system for Fiat. It processes the sensor values, determines in a crash which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners trigger, and checks the system continuously. It reports faults via the airbag warning light.

The control unit works in the background and responds without any action by the driver. In doing so, it logs irregularities in the fault memory, which a workshop can read out later.

After an accident, it stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 51783816 fail?

Most often, stored crash data from an earlier accident are the cause, even if no airbag has deployed. Other causes are ageing, connection problems and voltage spikes.

• ageing of electronic components
• cold solder joints
• moisture and corrosion on plug connections
• voltage spikes, for example with a weak battery or jump start

Crash data cannot be erased with a standard diagnostic tool. At Airbag24, they are erased as part of the repair.

The causes mentioned act on components and connections over an extended period.

How can you tell that the 51783816 is defective?

A defect shows itself through the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which stays on permanently or intermittently, and through a fault message in the instrument cluster. In addition, there is no connection to the diagnostic tool, or the fault memory cannot be cleared.

• airbag warning light stays on permanently or intermittently
• fault message in the instrument cluster
• diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit
• fault memory cannot be cleared

In this case, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not trigger in an emergency. Have the indication cleared up promptly.

Which vehicles is the 51783816 fitted in?

The control unit 51783816 is fitted in these vehicles: Fiat Idea 350 (2004-2005) and 350 Facelift (2005-2008). You can use this to compare the part number on the removed unit.

Here is the overview of vehicles:

• Fiat Idea 350 (2004-2005)
• Fiat Idea 350 Facelift (2005-2008)

Compare the part number on the label with this page. This only shows that you have the correct unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, as only this result shows whether the control unit is defective or a connector or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 51716748, 51752040, 51760853, 51816902, 51816903, 51816904.

How does the repair of the 51783816 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery, remove the control unit and create a repair order online. Finally, send in the well-packed unit.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, erases the crash data and carries out a function test. Processing usually takes 3–4 working days. Afterwards 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 51783816 get to Airbag24?

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

Put the printed repair order into the parcel and pack the control unit shock-resistant.