Airbag control unit with part number 68402857AC

What does the airbag control unit 68402857AC do?

The airbag control unit 68402857AC coordinates the restraint system (SRS) of Jeep. It processes the signals from the crash sensors and, in an accident, triggers the appropriate airbags and seatbelt pretensioners within milliseconds.

It also monitors the entire system during continuous operation. Detected faults appear as a message in the instrument cluster, and the airbag warning light signals them to the driver.

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

Why does the control unit 68402857AC fail?

Crash data stored after an accident is most often the cause, even if no airbag has deployed; a standard diagnostic tool cannot erase it. In addition come aged electronics, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at connectors, and voltage spikes.

Crash data is the most frequent cause because the control unit creates it after every registered accident, whether or not an airbag has deployed.

The other causes develop gradually. Electronic components age, moisture can penetrate plug connections, and corrosion causes contact problems, just like cold solder joints.

Voltage spikes occur, for example, with a weak battery or when a jump start is connected. Such loads act directly on the control unit.

How can you tell that the 68402857AC is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster stays on permanently or intermittently, an error message appears in the instrument cluster, or the diagnostic tool has no connection to the control unit. A fault memory that cannot be cleared is a further sign, and in these cases airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly not deploy in an emergency.

The warning light is the most important indication from the system: it shows the defect as soon as the system detects it. A permanently lit indicator should therefore be checked promptly.

A fault message or a connection problem with the diagnostic tool is also a clear sign that something is wrong with the system, and it must not be ignored.

Which vehicles is the 68402857AC fitted in?

The control unit 68402857AC is fitted in these vehicles: Jeep Compass MP (2016-2020) and MP Facelift (from 2020).

The known vehicles for this number are as follows:

• Jeep Compass MP (2016-2020)
• Jeep Compass MP Facelift (from 2020)

First compare the number on the label of the removed unit with this page; this only confirms that you have the correct unit in front of you. Then have the fault memory read out. Only this result shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a connector or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers A2C13501200.

How does the repair of the 68402857AC work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery, only then remove the control unit, and create a repair order online. Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, erases stored crash data and carries out a function test; processing usually takes 3–4 working days.

The sequence is mandatory for safety reasons, so do not change it.

Pack the unit well and send it in.

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 68402857AC get to Airbag24?

You send the unit in as a parcel to us or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, UPS brings the unit back to you from Airbag24.

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