Airbag control unit with part number 68085881AE

What does the airbag control unit 68085881AE do?

The unit 68085881AE belongs to the restraint system (SRS) in Dodge and controls airbags and seatbelt pretensioners there. In a crash it checks the sensor data and activates the appropriate restraint devices within milliseconds. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself; this lock only ends with the repair.

In normal operation it works unobtrusively in the background and checks the system continuously. If it detects a fault, it reports it via the airbag warning light.

Why does the control unit 68085881AE fail?

The most common cause is stored crash data, which arises after an accident even if no airbag has deployed; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. The other causes are aged electronics, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start, stress the electronics just as moisture on the contacts does. Which cause applies in an individual case is shown only by an investigation.

How can you tell that the 68085881AE is defective?

A defect shows itself through the airbag warning light, which may light up permanently or intermittently, and through fault messages in the instrument cluster. In addition, the diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit, or the fault memory remains. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

These signs are particularly noticeable:

• airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, permanently or intermittently
• fault message in the instrument cluster
• no connection between the diagnostic tool and the control unit
• fault memory cannot be cleared

Which vehicles is the 68085881AE fitted in?

The airbag control unit 68085881AE is fitted in these vehicles: Dodge Ram DS/DJ/D2 (2009-2018).

The assignment to the models follows here:

• Dodge Ram DS/DJ/D2 (2009-2018)

Before removal, compare the part number on the label with this page. This only shows that the unit matches the number. The fault memory, which you have read out beforehand, decides the cause. It shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or cable is responsible.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 0285015046, 56043128AC, 56043128AD, 68303217AA, 68303218AA, 68346712AA.

How does the repair of the 68085881AE work?

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

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, deletes stored crash data and carries out a function test. The unit is then returned to you.

Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days. This period applies only to checking, repairing and testing there.

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 68085881AE get to Airbag24?

You send the unit by parcel or have it collected by UPS for an extra charge. The return by UPS follows the repair. Place the printed repair order in the parcel and pad the unit shockproof.

Shockproof padding protects the unit from transport damage.