Airbag control unit with part number CX23-14D374-AD

What is the function of the airbag control unit CX23-14D374-AD?

The airbag control unit CX23-14D374-AD is the central control module of the occupant restraint system (SRS) in the Jaguar XF X250. As a product from Autoliv featuring an Infineon microcontroller, it processes data from crash sensors and determines whether and which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners need to be deployed in the event of a collision.

This module, also known as the Restraint Control Module, continuously monitors all components of the airbag system. These include front, side, and head airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, seat occupancy detection, and external crash sensors. It acts as the brain of the safety system, ensuring that the appropriate restraint devices are activated when needed.

Its task is to interpret signals from acceleration sensors to assess the severity of an impact. Based on this data, the control unit makes split-second decisions to trigger pyrotechnic components and stores relevant crash data in its internal memory (EEPROM/Flash).

Why does the CX23-14D374-AD control unit fail?

The most common cause of failure for the CX23-14D374-AD control unit is the storage of crash data after a collision. This data locks the module and disables the entire airbag system. Less frequently, internal electronic faults or communication issues can lead to complete system failure.

Following a collision in which airbags or seatbelt pretensioners have been deployed, the control unit writes a permanent fault record—known as crash data. This entry serves as a safety measure and cannot be cleared using standard diagnostic tools. The system remains inactive until the module is professionally reset.

Another potential cause of failure is internal hardware defects. These may involve problems with power supply, communication interfaces, or the Infineon controller itself. In such cases, communication via the OBD interface often becomes impossible, even if no crash data has been stored.

How do you recognize a defect in the CX23-14D374-AD?

A defect in the CX23-14D374-AD control unit typically manifests unmistakably through a permanently illuminated airbag warning light (SRS lamp) in the instrument cluster. Additionally, diagnostic tools may fail to establish communication with the control unit, or specific error codes such as “Crash data stored” may appear.

The primary and most obvious symptom is the persistent activation of the airbag warning light. It does not extinguish after starting the vehicle, indicating a serious fault in the restraint system that requires immediate inspection.

If a specialized workshop attempts to read the fault memory, communication problems may arise. The control unit becomes unreachable via the diagnostic interface, which strongly suggests an internal defect within the module.

In other cases, communication remains possible, and the fault memory displays clear entries. Error codes pointing to stored crash data or internal control unit malfunctions confirm that the root cause lies within the module itself, rather than in external components like sensors or wiring harnesses.

In which vehicles is the CX23-14D374-AD control unit installed?

The airbag control unit with part number CX23-14D374-AD is specifically used in various models of the Jaguar XF X250 series. This includes both the sedan in pre-facelift and facelift versions, as well as the high-performance XFR models and the practical XF Sportbrake estate.

At Airbag24, we repair the CX23-14D374-AD part number for the following Jaguar models in the X250 series:

Jaguar XF X250 (circa 2008–2011)

Jaguar XF X250 Facelift (circa 2011–2015)

Jaguar XFR / XFR-S (X250)

Jaguar XF Sportbrake (X250)

How is the CX23-14D374-AD repaired?

The repair is a purely electronic process focused on restoring the factory software. After sending the removed control unit to Airbag24, our technicians extract the memory contents, remove the crash data, and reset the module. Following a functional test, the device is returned ready for installation.

Before removal, a specialized workshop should perform a thorough diagnosis to confirm that the fault truly resides in the control unit and not in peripheral components (e.g., wiring, sensors). This saves time and costs. Please include a detailed fault description with your package.

Upon receipt at Airbag24, the memory contents (dump) of the Infineon microcontroller are extracted. Specialized software analyzes the dump, identifies areas containing crash and error data, and completely clears them. The cleaned dump is then rewritten back onto the control unit (re-flash).

Finally, an electrical functional test is performed on a test bench. Here, the module’s communication and fault-free operation are verified. The repaired original control unit is then fully operational again and can be installed in the vehicle. We provide 2 years' statutory liability for defects on the repair performed.

Is it worth repairing the CX23-14D374-AD?

Yes, repair is the most economical and technically sensible solution. You can save up to 70% compared to purchasing a new part from the manufacturer. Since your original control unit remains intact, no complicated coding or programming is required after installation, saving you additional time and money.

A new OEM airbag control unit for a Jaguar XF can incur substantial costs. Repairing by resetting the crash data is a proven, significantly more affordable alternative that restores full system functionality.

An additional key advantage is that the repaired module is “plug-and-play.” It is already configured for your vehicle, so once professionally installed and any residual errors cleared from the overall system, no further adjustments are necessary. Moreover, reusing the electronics helps protect the environment.