Airbag control unit with part number 51848079

What does the airbag control unit 51848079 do?

In the restraint system (SRS) of Abarth, the airbag control unit 51848079 evaluates the crash sensors. In an accident it decides within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and reports faults via the airbag warning light.

An accident leaves traces in the device: it stores crash data and then locks its function. Only the repair ends this lock.

In everyday use the system runs unnoticed in the background and checks its components as it does so.

Why does the control unit 51848079 fail?

On the 51848079, stored crash data is the most common cause, even if no airbag has triggered. Other causes are aged electronics, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion on plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Crash data cannot be erased with a normal diagnostic tool. The fault message therefore remains, even though the accident is long over.

Aged electronics, cold solder joints and moisture on plug connections are also possible causes. Voltage spikes, for example from a jump start, can additionally stress the unit.

How can you tell that the 51848079 is defective?

A defect on the 51848079 shows itself through the airbag warning light, which lights up permanently or intermittently, an error message in the instrument cluster, no connection between the diagnostic tool and the control unit, or a fault memory that cannot be cleared. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not be able to trigger.

Typical signs at a glance:

• airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, permanently or intermittently
• error message in the instrument cluster
• diagnostic tool without connection to the control unit
• fault memory that cannot be cleared

If you notice any of these signs, a prompt check by a specialist workshop is worthwhile.

Which vehicles is the 51848079 fitted in?

The control unit 51848079 is installed in Abarth models: Abarth 595 312 (2012-2015) and 312 Facelift (from 2016); Abarth 500 312 (2008-2015) and 312 Facelift (from 2016).

The list of models:

• Abarth 595 312 (2012-2015)
• Abarth 595 312 Facelift (from 2016)
• Abarth 500 312 (2008-2015)
• Abarth 500 312 Facelift (from 2016)

Comparing the part number on the label is a good first step, but it only shows whether the unit fits. Whether the control unit itself is defective or a plug or cable is the cause is shown only by the fault log read out in advance.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 51918659, 51963734.

How does the repair of the 51848079 work?

You first have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery, remove the control unit 51848079 and create a repair order online. Next, send the unit in well packed. Airbag24 needs 3–4 working days for testing, repairing and checking.

At Airbag24 the unit is checked on the test bench, defective components are replaced, crash data is erased and a function test is carried out. The unit then 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 51848079 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 51848079 to Airbag24 as a parcel, or you book a UPS collection for an extra charge. The return shipment after the repair is made by UPS.

One copy of the printed repair order goes into the parcel. Pack the unit so that knocks cannot damage it.