Airbag control unit with part number 98820-3HW0A

What does the airbag control unit 98820-3HW0A do?

In the Nissan the airbag control unit 98820-3HW0A monitors the restraint system (SRS) and processes the data from the crash sensors. In an accident it selects within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners fire. If there is a fault, the control unit reports it via the airbag warning light.

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

During normal operation the unit works unnoticed and supplies its values to the system. It only stands out when something is wrong.

Why does the control unit 98820-3HW0A fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has triggered. An ordinary diagnostic tool cannot remove this data. Further causes are aged electronics, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connectors, as well as voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start.

The crash data is created when the unit assesses an event as an accident. An airbag does not need to have triggered for this.

The remaining sources of interference can be in the electronics itself or at its connections. Even a damp plug connection can cause the control unit to output an error message.

How can you tell that the 98820-3HW0A is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up, intermittently or constantly, and an error message appears. In addition, the diagnostic tool cannot establish a connection to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared.

The warning light is the most important indication, and it shows a fault directly. As long as it is on, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly not trigger in an emergency. A timely check is therefore sensible so that the system works fully again.

Which vehicles is the 98820-3HW0A fitted in?

The 98820-3HW0A is fitted in these vehicles: Nissan Altima L33 (2012-2018).

The list of known vehicles follows here:

• Nissan Altima L33 (2012-2018)

Comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page only confirms that it is the correct unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, as this log shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a cable or plug causes the fault.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98820-3TA0B, 98820-3TA9C, 98820-9HN0A, 98820-9HS9A.

How does the repair of the 98820-3HW0A work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log with the unit. Then disconnect the battery and afterwards remove the control unit. Next create the repair order online and pack the unit well for shipping. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 inspects the control unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, deletes the stored crash data and carries out a function test.

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 98820-3HW0A get to Airbag24?

You send the unit as a parcel, or you book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair Airbag24 dispatches the control unit to you by UPS.

Pack the printed repair order into the parcel and pack the unit shock-proof.