Airbag control unit with part number AR33-14B321-CB

What does the airbag control unit AR33-14B321-CB do?

The airbag control unit AR33-14B321-CB is the central control unit of the SRS in Ford. It evaluates the crash sensors, decides in an accident within milliseconds whether airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously.

It shows faults via the airbag warning light. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit AR33-14B321-CB fail?

Stored crash data is the most common cause with the AR33-14B321-CB, even if no airbag has deployed. Other causes come into consideration: ageing electronics, cold solder joints, moisture at plug connections and voltage spikes.

A normal diagnostic tool cannot erase the crash data. Airbag24 erases it during the repair, so the unit comes back without this data.

Voltage spikes arise, for example, from a weak battery or a jump start, and moisture and corrosion attack plug connections.

How can you tell that the AR33-14B321-CB is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up on the AR33-14B321-CB permanently or intermittently. In addition, an error message appears, the diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared. Airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not deploy in an emergency.

The warning light shows the fault as soon as the control unit detects it. Do not wait for the problem to resolve itself. Instead, have the indication checked.

Which vehicles is the AR33-14B321-CB fitted in?

The AR33-14B321-CB is fitted in these vehicles: Ford Mustang 5 S197 (2004-2014).

The assignment to vehicles is shown in this list:

• Ford Mustang 5 S197 (2004-2014)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page, so that you can be sure you have the right unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, 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 ML3Z-14B321-Z, ML3Z14B321A, MR3T-14B321-EA.

How does the repair of the AR33-14B321-CB work?

For the AR33-14B321-CB, first have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Then create the repair order online and send in the well-packed unit.

This sequence is mandatory for safety reasons.

At Airbag24 the unit is checked on the test bench, defective components are replaced, the crash data is erased and a functional test is run. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days. After that, your own unit goes back. 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 AR33-14B321-CB get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit AR33-14B321-CB as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 sends it back by UPS.

Put the printed repair order into the parcel and pack the unit shock-resistant.