Airbag control unit with part number A1718203620

What does the airbag control unit A1718203620 do?

The airbag control unit A1718203620 is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) for Mercedes-Benz. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors and, in the event of an accident, decides within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered. It also monitors the system continuously.

The control unit reports faults in the system via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

After an accident, it stores crash data and locks itself.

The unit is one of the safety-relevant components in the vehicle.

Why does the control unit A1718203620 fail?

The A1718203620 most often fails because of crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has been triggered. Other causes are aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connectors, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start. With this control unit, the crash data often cannot be erased; if you would like it erased, contact Airbag24 briefly before sending the unit in.

A standard diagnostic tool cannot erase the crash data.

Aged components and cold solder joints can cause a failure just as corrosion at plug connectors can.

How can you tell that the A1718203620 is defective?

A defect in the A1718203620 shows up as the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lighting up permanently or intermittently, and as a fault message in the instrument cluster. The diagnostic tool cannot connect to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be erased. In an emergency, the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

This is how you recognise the defect:

• airbag warning light lights up permanently or intermittently
• fault message in the instrument cluster
• the diagnostic tool cannot connect to the control unit
• the fault memory cannot be erased

A light that only comes on now and then still indicates a fault. Then have the fault memory read out.

Which vehicles is the A1718203620 fitted in?

The control unit A1718203620 is fitted in these vehicles: Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class R171 Convertible (2004-2011).

The vehicles for which this part number is on record are listed here:

• Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class R171 Convertible (2004-2011)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This only confirms that it is the right unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only its result shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or a cable is the cause. Check every digit of the number, including the letters at the end.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 1718206526, 1718207326, 285010422, 500405210770, 500408130020, 500603070328.

How does the repair of the A1718203620 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log; then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Next, create a repair order online and send the A1718203620 in, well packed. Airbag24 then tests it on the test bench, replaces defective components and carries out a function test.

Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days. This time covers the inspection, repair and testing at Airbag24.

If you would like the crash data erased, contact Airbag24 briefly before sending the unit in.

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 A1718203620 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit A1718203620 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 into the parcel and pack the unit shockproof.

Pad the unit so that it does not shift in the box.