Airbag control unit with part number 98820-1BA0A

What does the airbag control unit 98820-1BA0A do?

The airbag control unit 98820-1BA0A controls the SRS restraint system of Infiniti. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, selects the appropriate airbags and seatbelt pretensioners within milliseconds in an accident, and monitors the system continuously. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

The control unit reports faults via the airbag warning light. Monitoring covers the sensors, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners connected to the control unit.

During normal operation the control unit hardly stands out. It only becomes noticeable when a fault is present or, after an accident, when the lock engages.

Why does the control unit 98820-1BA0A fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other causes are aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or jump-starting.

Crash data stay in memory until they are specifically removed, and the fault message remains until then. That is why an accident in which no airbag fired can still cause a problem later.

The other causes can only be narrowed down by testing the system. A plug contact with corrosion can produce messages similar to those of a defective control unit, which is why testing matters.

How can you tell that the 98820-1BA0A is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster stays on permanently or comes on intermittently, an error message appears, and the diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit. In this state, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may fail to deploy in an emergency.

• Airbag warning light stays on permanently or comes on intermittently
• Fault message in the instrument cluster
• Diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit
• Fault memory cannot be cleared

Whether any of these signs points to a defect in the control unit is shown only by reading out the fault memory.

Anyone who sees the warning light should therefore have the fault memory read out promptly.

Which vehicles is the 98820-1BA0A fitted in?

The control unit 98820-1BA0A is fitted in these vehicles: Infiniti QX50 J50 (2007-2013) and J50 Facelift (2013-2018).

The following overview shows the vehicles that Airbag24 links to this number.

• Infiniti QX50 J50 (2007-2013)
• Infiniti QX50 J50 Facelift (2013-2018)

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

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98820-5NY9B, 98820-5UB0A, 988201BA0B, 988201BA0C, 988205NL0B.

How does the repair of the 98820-1BA0A work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log, then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. Then create a repair order online and send in the well-packed unit. Airbag24 tests it, repairs defective components, erases stored crash data and runs a function test.

Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days. After that you receive your own unit back.

The sequence is set for safety reasons when working on the vehicle, which is why removal only follows once the battery is disconnected.

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 98820-1BA0A get to Airbag24?

You send the control 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 into the parcel and pack the unit shock-proof before you send it.