Airbag control unit with part number 77960-SZA-A120-M1

What does the airbag control unit 77960-SZA-A120-M1 do?

The airbag control unit 77960-SZA-A120-M1 controls the SRS restraint system in the Honda. It evaluates the crash sensors, determines in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners trigger, and monitors the system continuously. It reports detected faults via the airbag warning light.

After an accident the unit stores crash data and locks itself. Any fault finding on this unit must plan for this lock from the start.

Why does the control unit 77960-SZA-A120-M1 fail?

On the 77960-SZA-A120-M1, the most common cause is stored crash data: it remains in the memory even if no airbag has deployed. With this control unit, erasing the crash data is often not possible; anyone who wants it erased should contact Airbag24 briefly before sending the unit in, so the part number can be checked there. Further causes include ageing, connection problems and voltage spikes.

Crash data is one of the points that must be clarified before every repair. The fact that no airbag has deployed says nothing about whether something is recorded in the unit.

The further causes in detail:

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

How can you tell that the 77960-SZA-A120-M1 is defective?

On the 77960-SZA-A120-M1, a defect shows up as the airbag warning light, as an error message, as a missing connection to the diagnostic tool, or as a fault memory that cannot be cleared. The warning light is the clearest sign.

These signs in detail:

• The airbag warning light lights up constantly or only intermittently.
• The instrument cluster shows an error message.
• A diagnostic tool cannot reach the control unit.
• The fault memory remains despite an attempt to clear it.

In an emergency, the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy. Have the system checked promptly.

Which vehicles is the 77960-SZA-A120-M1 fitted in?

This unit with the number 77960-SZA-A120-M1 is fitted in these vehicles: Honda Pilot 2nd generation (2008-2011) and 2nd generation Facelift (2011-2015).

A list of the assigned models follows:

• Honda Pilot 2nd generation (2008-2011)
• Honda Pilot 2nd generation Facelift (2011-2015)

Compare the number with the label of the removed unit; this only confirms that it is the right unit. Whether the control unit is defective or a connector or cable causes the fault is shown only by reading out the fault memory. Therefore have it read out before removal.

How does the repair of the 77960-SZA-A120-M1 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log, then disconnect the battery and remove the 77960-SZA-A120-M1. Then create the repair order online and send in the well-packed unit. Airbag24 checks it on the test bench, repairs defective components and carries out a function test.

The order is for safety, because the control unit is only removed after the battery has been disconnected. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days; it covers only checking, repairing and testing. Your own unit is then returned to you.

If you want the crash data erased, contact Airbag24 briefly before sending the unit 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 77960-SZA-A120-M1 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 77960-SZA-A120-M1 as a parcel to Airbag24, or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 sends it back to you by UPS.

Pad the unit so it is shock-proof and enclose the printed repair order.