Airbag control unit with part number 51976526

What does the airbag control unit 51976526 do?

The airbag control unit 51976526 controls the restraint system (SRS) in Ford. It processes the measurements from the impact sensors, determines within milliseconds in a crash which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are activated, and checks the system without interruption. It shows faults via the airbag warning light.

The control unit is at the centre of the entire protection chain. It receives the signals, evaluates them and, where necessary, triggers the components involved, without you having to operate anything.

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

Why does the control unit 51976526 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed. With this control unit, erasing the crash data is often not possible; if you want it erased, briefly contact Airbag24 before sending it in, and Airbag24 will then check the number.

Crash data cannot be erased with a normal diagnostic tool, and this applies to this control unit in particular. Aged electronic components are also possible, as are cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections.

Voltage spikes can also cause a control unit to fail, for example from a weak battery or a jump start. These causes occur alongside the crash data and do not replace it as an explanation.

How can you tell that the 51976526 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently. In addition a fault message appears, the diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared.

As long as the fault exists, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not deploy in an emergency. The warning light is therefore a signal to keep an eye on in everyday driving.

The light alone does not say which component is affected. Only reading out the fault memory provides that information.

Which vehicles is the 51976526 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 51976526 is fitted in these vehicles: Ford Ka 2 KA2 RU8 (2008-2016).

The list shows the vehicles stored in the data for this part number.

• Ford Ka 2 KA2 RU8 (2008-2016)

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

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 51805046, 51889815, 51925901, 51925902, A2C30469900, A2C30470000.

How does the repair of the 51976526 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Only then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit; afterwards create a repair order online and send the unit in well packed.

At Airbag24 the unit goes onto the test bench. Defective components are replaced, and a function test follows. The unit then goes back to you.

If you want the crash data erased, briefly contact Airbag24 before sending the unit in. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days. 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 51976526 get to Airbag24?

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

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