Airbag control unit with part number DM5T-14B321-NB

What does the airbag control unit DM5T-14B321-NB do?

As the SRS control unit of Ford, the airbag control unit DM5T-14B321-NB controls the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners. In an impact it evaluates the sensor signals and decides within milliseconds on triggering.

During normal operation, the unit monitors all components of the system. If it detects a fault, the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up.

After an accident, the unit stores crash data and then locks itself.

Why does the control unit DM5T-14B321-NB fail?

The most common cause of the DM5T-14B321-NB is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has triggered. Aged components, cold solder joints, corrosion on plug connections and voltage spikes are also involved.

A diagnostic tool from the trade cannot delete the crash data. As long as the data remains in memory, the fault persists.

Aged components and cold solder joints also lead to malfunctions. Corrosion and moisture on plug connections interrupt signals, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or jump-starting, put strain on the electronics.

How can you tell that the DM5T-14B321-NB is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster shows a defect in the DM5T-14B321-NB when it lights up permanently or intermittently. Error messages in the instrument cluster, a missing contact with the diagnostic tool and a fault memory that cannot be cleared may also appear.

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not trigger. The warning is to be taken seriously, even if the car continues to drive.

A diagnostic tool that cannot establish contact with the control unit is another clear sign.

Which vehicles is the DM5T-14B321-NB fitted in?

The DM5T-14B321-NB is fitted in these vehicles: Ford Focus 3 ’11 (2010-2014) and 3 ’11 Facelift (2014-2018).

The following vehicles are stored for this part number:

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

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page, so you can see that you have the right unit in front of you. It is also advisable to have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only this 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 285011993, BM5T-14B321-BD, BM5T-14B321-BE, BM5T-14B321-BF, BM5T-14B321-BG, BM5T-14B321-CD.

How does the repair of the DM5T-14B321-NB work?

At Airbag24, the check, repair and function test of the DM5T-14B321-NB usually take 3–4 working days. This time applies only to the work in our workshop.

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

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components and deletes the stored crash data. A function test follows, and then your own unit is returned to you.

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 DM5T-14B321-NB get to Airbag24?

You send the DM5T-14B321-NB as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 sends your own unit back by UPS.

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