Airbag control unit with part number 51851218

What does the airbag control unit 51851218 do?

The airbag control unit 51851218 controls the restraint system (SRS) of Fiat. It checks the signals from the crash sensors, decides in an accident on the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, and monitors the system continuously.

Triggering takes place within milliseconds. The unit remains constantly ready for operation for this purpose.

If it detects a fault, it stores the fault and shows it via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

After an accident, the control unit stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 51851218 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed. A normal diagnostic tool cannot erase this data.

Other causes are general in nature:

• aged electronic components
• cold solder joints
• moisture and corrosion at plug connectors
• voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start

The crash data is not a defect in itself, but it is one of the reasons why the fault memory cannot be cleared.

How can you tell that the 51851218 is defective?

A defect shows up as the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which lights up permanently or intermittently. In addition, there are error messages in the instrument cluster, no connection to the diagnostic tool and a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

The airbag warning light is the most obvious sign. Have the fault checked before it becomes entrenched.

With a defective control unit, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly not trigger in an emergency.

Which vehicles is the 51851218 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 51851218 is fitted in these vehicles: Fiat Bravo 198 (2007-2014).

The vehicles on file for this part number are shown here:

• Fiat Bravo 198 (2007-2014)

Have the fault memory read out before removing the unit. Only then is it certain that the control unit is defective and not a plug or a cable. Afterwards, compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with 51851218.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 51775404, 51827584, 51827585, 51873889, 5WK43640, 5WK43641.

How does the repair of the 51851218 work?

Before removal, you read out the fault memory and attach the log. Then you disconnect the battery, remove the control unit, create the repair order online and send the unit in well packed. Airbag24 checks and repairs the unit and returns your own control unit to you.

Work carefully when removing the unit so that the plugs and housing remain undamaged.

At Airbag24, the unit is examined on the test bench. Defective components are replaced, the crash data is deleted and a function test is carried out. Processing usually takes 3–4 working days, and this time applies only to checking, repairing and testing at Airbag24.

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 51851218 get to Airbag24?

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

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