Airbag control unit with part number 98820-JA80A

What does the airbag control unit 98820-JA80A do?

Security control for Nissan runs via the airbag control unit 98820-JA80A, which coordinates the restraint system (SRS). It evaluates the crash sensors and determines in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered.

The system is monitored continuously; faults appear on the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

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

Why does the control unit 98820-JA80A fail?

Most often the control unit fails because of stored crash data, which can arise even without an airbag being triggered. An ordinary diagnostic tool does not delete it. Other possible causes are aged components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion on plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Crash data remains in the memory until it is specifically removed.

The other causes lie in the electronics and their surroundings. Components age, solder joints can go cold, and moisture and corrosion disturb the contact on plug connections. Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or jump-starting, can damage the circuit.

How can you tell that the 98820-JA80A is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster is the most important sign if it lights up permanently or intermittently. In addition there is a fault message in the instrument cluster, a missing connection to the diagnostic tool, and a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

In this state, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly fail to trigger in an emergency. The system therefore does not count as functional.

The light thus shows the defect itself.

Which vehicles is the 98820-JA80A fitted in?

This control unit was fitted by Nissan in the following models: Nissan Altima L32 (2006-2012).

Here is the list:

• Nissan Altima L32 (2006-2012)

Comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page ensures it is the right unit. Whether the control unit is defective, or whether a plug or cable causes the fault, is shown only by the fault memory. Its read-out therefore belongs before removal.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98820-9HN0A, 98820-9HS9A, 98820-AV200, 98820-AV21A, 98820-JA100.

How does the repair of the 98820-JA80A work?

You have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then you disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Online, you create the repair order; processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, deletes crash data and carries out a function test.

After that, 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-JA80A get to Airbag24?

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

The printed repair order goes into the parcel. The packaging must be stable.