Airbag control unit with part number BM5T-14B321-BD

What does the airbag control unit BM5T-14B321-BD do?

The airbag control unit BM5T-14B321-BD is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) of Ford. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors and decides in an accident, within milliseconds, which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered. It also monitors the system continuously.

The device shows faults via the airbag warning light; you do not need to set anything for this.

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

Why does the control unit BM5T-14B321-BD fail?

The most common cause on the BM5T-14B321-BD is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed. A normal diagnostic tool cannot erase this data.

Further causes in general:

• aged electronic components
• cold solder joints
• moisture and corrosion on plug connectors
• voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start

Which of the further causes applies is only shown by the examination of the unit.

How can you tell that the BM5T-14B321-BD is defective?

A defect in the BM5T-14B321-BD shows itself through an airbag warning light in the instrument cluster that lights up permanently or intermittently, through fault messages in the instrument cluster, through no connection between the diagnostic tool and the control unit, or through a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

• Airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, permanently or intermittently
• Fault message in the instrument cluster
• No connection between the diagnostic tool and the control unit
• Fault memory cannot be cleared

In an emergency, the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not be able to deploy. The warning light shows the defect, so a prompt inspection appointment makes sense.

Which vehicles is the BM5T-14B321-BD fitted in?

The airbag control unit BM5T-14B321-BD is fitted in these vehicles: Ford Focus 3 ’11 (2010-2014) and 3 ’11 Facelift (2014-2018).

Our data for this part number lists these vehicles:

• Ford Focus 3 ’11 (2010-2014)
• Ford Focus 3 ’11 Facelift (2014-2018)

Comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page only establishes that you have the right unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only the log shows whether the control unit or a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 285011993, BM5T-14B321-CE, CM5T-14B321-CA, DM5T 14B321 SA, F1ET-14B321-CB.

How does the repair of the BM5T-14B321-BD work?

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

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, erases stored crash data and runs a function test. Afterwards the unit goes back to you.

The sequence at the start is there for your safety.

Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days; this means only the work at Airbag24, not the 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 BM5T-14B321-BD get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit BM5T-14B321-BD to Airbag24 as a parcel, or you book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns it by UPS.

You put the printed repair order into the parcel, and the unit must be packed shockproof.