Airbag control unit with part number 98820-3KB0A

What does the airbag control unit 98820-3KB0A do?

The airbag control unit 98820-3KB0A is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) for Nissan. It processes signals from the crash sensors and, in the event of an accident, decides which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered.

The electronics monitor the system continuously and report faults via the airbag warning light. The evaluation remains within the unit.

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

Why does the control unit 98820-3KB0A fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag was triggered. Other causes include aged components, dry solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

A normal diagnostic tool cannot erase this crash data. Airbag24 erases it during the repair.

Aged electronics and dry solder joints can cause intermittent faults. Moisture and corrosion attack the plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start, put strain on the unit.

How can you tell that the 98820-3KB0A is defective?

A defect in the 98820-3KB0A shows up as a series of warning signs, above all the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which lights up permanently or intermittently.

You should be aware of these signs:

• airbag warning light, permanently or intermittently
• fault message in the instrument cluster
• no connection between the diagnostic tool and the control unit
• fault memory that cannot be cleared

As long as the fault persists, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not trigger in an emergency. Therefore take these warning signs seriously.

Which vehicles is the 98820-3KB0A fitted in?

The 98820-3KB0A is fitted in these vehicles: Nissan Pathfinder R51 (2004-2007), R51 1st Facelift (2007-2010) and R51 2nd Facelift (2010-2013).

The overview for this part number reads:

• Nissan Pathfinder R51 (2004-2007)
• Nissan Pathfinder R51 1st Facelift (2007-2010)
• Nissan Pathfinder R51 2nd Facelift (2010-2013)

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 in advance as well, because only this log shows whether the control unit itself or a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 0285001781 Bosch, 98820 EA51C, 98820-3KW0A, 988205X30C.

How does the repair of the 98820-3KB0A work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log; then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Afterwards create a repair order online and send the unit off well packed. At Airbag24, inspection, repair and testing typically take 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 examines the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, erases the stored crash data and carries out a function test.

The unit then goes back 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 98820-3KB0A get to Airbag24?

The control unit 98820-3KB0A reaches Airbag24 as a parcel, either by posting it in or with a UPS collection booked for an extra charge. After the repair it is sent back by UPS.

The printed repair order goes into the parcel. Pack the unit in a shock-resistant way.