Airbag control unit with part number 98820-1MS0A

What does the airbag control unit 98820-1MS0A do?

The 98820-1MS0A is the SRS airbag control unit for Infiniti: it processes the readings from the crash sensors, determines in an impact which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners fire, and checks the rest of the system during operation.

It stores any faults that occur and shows them via the airbag warning light. A decision of this kind has to be made within a fraction of a second, which is why the evaluation runs purely electronically.

An accident causes the unit to record crash data and lock itself.

Why does the control unit 98820-1MS0A fail?

In the 98820-1MS0A, the most common cause is a crash data entry from a previous accident, even if no airbag has fired; a normal diagnostic tool cannot reach it. Other causes include aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion on connectors, and voltage spikes.

Crash data stays in the memory until it is specifically removed. Airbag24 deletes it as part of the repair.

Ageing of components develops gradually. Moisture and corrosion at plug connections lead to transition resistances, and voltage spikes, for example from jump-starting or a weak battery, put strain on the electronics.

How can you tell that the 98820-1MS0A is defective?

A defect in the 98820-1MS0A can show when the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster comes on, an error message appears, the diagnostic tool cannot connect to the control unit, or the fault memory persists. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

The light may stay on permanently or only come on intermittently; either is a reason for an inspection. An error message in the instrument cluster confirms the suspicion.

If the fault memory cannot be cleared or the control unit cannot be addressed with the diagnostic tool, there is a malfunction that can impair the function of the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners.

Which vehicles is the 98820-1MS0A fitted in?

The 98820-1MS0A from Infiniti is fitted in the vehicles with this part number, namely: Infiniti M37 Y51 (2010-2013).

The vehicles on record are listed below.

• Infiniti M37 Y51 (2010-2013)

Before you remove the unit, compare the part number on the label with this page; this only confirms that it is the right unit. Then have the fault memory read out, as it shows whether the control unit is defective or a plug or cable is the trigger.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98820-1MA1C.

How does the repair of the 98820-1MS0A work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log, then disconnect the battery. Only then remove the control unit, create the repair order online and send the unit in, well packed. At Airbag24 this usually takes 3–4 working days.

On the test bench Airbag24 checks the unit, repairs defective components, deletes the stored crash data and tests the function. The unit is then returned to you.

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 98820-1MS0A get to Airbag24?

The control unit 98820-1MS0A reaches Airbag24 as a parcel, or UPS can collect it for an extra charge. After the repair Airbag24 sends it back by UPS.

The printed repair order goes into the parcel. Pack the unit shock-proof before it is shipped.