Airbag control unit with part number 98820-3KC0A

What does the airbag control unit 98820-3KC0A do?

The airbag control unit 98820-3KC0A is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) in Nissan. It checks the crash sensors, decides in an accident whether airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously.

If the unit detects a fault, it records an entry in the fault memory and shows it on the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. This keeps the state of the system traceable for the driver.

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

Why does the control unit 98820-3KC0A fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag was triggered. A normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it, so the control unit keeps reporting the fault.

Airbag24 erases the crash data during the repair. This statement applies explicitly to this unit, so it is not a problem that persists without intervention.

Ageing electronic components also play a role, as do cold solder joints and moisture and corrosion on the plug connections.

Voltage spikes are also among the possible triggers, for example with a weak battery or when starting with a jump start.

How can you tell that the 98820-3KC0A is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster stays on permanently or intermittently if there is a defect in the 98820-3KC0A. Fault messages can appear alongside it, the diagnostic tool cannot reach the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared.

These signs should not be ignored. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may fail to trigger.

• Airbag warning light on permanently or intermittently
• Fault message in the instrument cluster
• No connection from the diagnostic tool to the control unit
• Fault memory cannot be cleared

Which vehicles is the 98820-3KC0A fitted in?

The control unit 98820-3KC0A is used in Nissan vehicles, specifically in these: Nissan Pathfinder R51 (2004-2007), R51 1st Facelift (2007-2010) and R51 2nd Facelift (2010-2013).

These vehicles belong to this part number:

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

Before you remove the unit, have the fault memory read out. Then it is clear whether the control unit is defective or a plug or cable is the cause. Afterwards compare the part number on the label with this page.

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 98820-3KC0A work?

Before removal, have the fault memory read out and attach the log to the unit. Then disconnect the battery, remove the control unit and create a repair order online. Processing at Airbag24 generally takes 3–4 working days.

Then pack the unit well and send it in.

Airbag24 checks the control unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, erases stored crash data and carries out a functional test. Then your own unit is 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 98820-3KC0A get to Airbag24?

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

Put the printed repair order into the parcel and pack the control unit shock-resistant.