Airbag control unit with part number 98820 JN50A

What does the airbag control unit 98820 JN50A do?

The airbag control unit 98820 JN50A is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) in Nissan. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, decides in an emergency within a fraction of a second which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously.

During operation, the control unit constantly checks whether all connected components are working. If it detects a fault, it stores it in the fault memory and reports it via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

After an accident, the unit stores crash data and locks itself. For later fault finding, this very entry is an important clue.

Why does the control unit 98820 JN50A fail?

Stored crash data after an accident is the most common cause of a failure of the 98820 JN50A, even if no airbag was triggered. Further causes are aged electronic components, moisture and corrosion on plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery.

Crash data cannot be deleted with an ordinary diagnostic tool. It must therefore not be overlooked during fault finding.

The other triggers concern the electronics and their connections: components age, moisture attacks the contacts, and voltage spikes in the vehicle electrical system stress the circuits.

How can you tell that the 98820 JN50A is defective?

A defect in the 98820 JN50A shows up as the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which lights up continuously or intermittently. Typical signs are also an error message in the instrument cluster, a diagnostic tool without connection to the control unit, and a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

• Airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, continuously or intermittently
• Error message in the instrument cluster
• Diagnostic tool receives no connection to the control unit
• Fault memory cannot be cleared

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not be able to trigger in the event of such a defect. The warning light is therefore a signal that you should have clarified promptly.

Only reading out the fault memory will show whether the control unit itself or a cable is causing the fault.

Which vehicles is the 98820 JN50A fitted in?

The 98820 JN50A is fitted in these vehicles: Nissan Teana J32 (2008-2013).

The following overview shows the vehicles to which this part number is assigned.

• Nissan Teana J32 (2008-2013)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This only ensures that you have the right unit. Also have the fault memory read out, because only this log shows whether the control unit itself is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

How does the repair of the 98820 JN50A work?

First you have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then you disconnect the battery and only afterwards remove the control unit 98820 JN50A. Next you create a repair order online and send the well-packed unit in.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, deletes stored crash data and carries out a function test. Afterwards, Airbag24 sends your own unit back to you.

Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days. This time covers only checking, repairing and testing, and does not include removal or shipping.

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 JN50A get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98820 JN50A in as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge; after repair, Airbag24 returns it to you by UPS.

Pack the unit shockproof and place the printed repair order in the parcel.