Airbag control unit with part number 98820-EV20A

What does the airbag control unit 98820-EV20A do?

The airbag control unit 98820-EV20A coordinates the restraint system (SRS) of Nissan. It evaluates the data from the crash sensors, decides within milliseconds in an impact whether airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and checks the system continuously. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

While driving, the unit checks whether sensors, wiring and output stages are working properly. If it finds a deviation, it writes it to the fault memory.

It is reported via the airbag warning light. The lock after an accident remains in place until the repair lifts it.

Why does the control unit 98820-EV20A fail?

The most common cause is stored crash data after an accident, even without a triggered airbag; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other causes are aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

The stored crash data stays in the unit until the repair removes it. Reading it out with an ordinary tool does not make it disappear.

The other causes concern the electronics and their connections. Aged components, moisture at plugs and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump-start, can contribute. Only examination shows which of these applies.

How can you tell that the 98820-EV20A is defective?

A defect shows as an airbag warning light that stays on permanently or intermittently, an error message in the instrument cluster, no connection to the diagnostic tool, and a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster reports the fault, possibly together with a message on the display. If the diagnostic tool has no connection to the control unit and the fault memory cannot be emptied, the system needs to be checked.

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy. The indication should therefore not be ignored.

Which vehicles is the 98820-EV20A fitted in?

The control unit 98820-EV20A is fitted in these vehicles: Nissan 350Z Z33 1st Facelift (2005-2007) and Z33 2nd Facelift (2007-2009).

These vehicles are assigned to the unit:

• Nissan 350Z Z33 1st Facelift (2005-2007)
• Nissan 350Z Z33 2nd Facelift (2007-2009)

Match the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This only confirms that it is the correct unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only the 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 98820CD600.

How does the repair of the 98820-EV20A work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Create a repair order online and send in the well-packed unit. Airbag24 tests it on the test bench, replaces defective components where necessary, erases the stored crash data and carries out a function test. Your own unit is then returned.

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-EV20A get to Airbag24?

You send the unit in as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns it by UPS.

Put the printed repair order in the parcel, and pack the unit shockproof.