Airbag control unit with part number 98820-5NM1B

What does the airbag control unit 98820-5NM1B do?

The airbag control unit 98820-5NM1B controls the restraint system of Infiniti. It processes the signals from the crash sensors, triggers the appropriate airbags and seatbelt pretensioners within milliseconds in an accident, and checks the system continuously. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

If the unit detects a fault, it appears via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

What the unit does in the background is not noticed in everyday life. Only a test or a fault makes its work visible.

Why does the control unit 98820-5NM1B fail?

Stored crash data are the most common cause with the 98820-5NM1B, even if no airbag was triggered in the accident. A normal diagnostic tool cannot erase them. Other causes are aged components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Aged electronics lose reliability over time.

Moisture and corrosion attack plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start, load the electronics.

How can you tell that the 98820-5NM1B is defective?

On the 98820-5NM1B, the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently, and a fault message appears in the instrument cluster. The diagnostic tool then finds no connection to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared; in an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not trigger.

That the warning light is on is the clearest sign of a problem. It shows the fault as soon as the unit detects it.

A loss of contact with the diagnostic tool is a further sign, but it may equally come from a plug or a cable.

Which vehicles is the 98820-5NM1B fitted in?

The control unit 98820-5NM1B is fitted in these vehicles: Infiniti QX50 J50 (2007-2013) and J50 Facelift (2013-2018).

Which models are affected exactly is shown in the overview that follows.

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

Comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page only shows whether it is the correct unit. Before removal, also have the fault memory read out, because only the log shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

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 98820-5NM1B work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery, afterwards remove the control unit, create a repair order online and send the unit in well packed. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

The sequence is prescribed for safety reasons, because work on the restraint system must be done with care.

At Airbag24 the unit is examined on the test bench and defective components are repaired. Stored crash data are then erased and a function test carried out; afterwards your own unit 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 98820-5NM1B get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98820-5NM1B as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. UPS brings the repaired unit to you afterwards.

Enclose the printed repair order with the parcel, and pack the unit shock-resistant.