Airbag control unit with part number FL3T-14B321-BD

What does the airbag control unit FL3T-14B321-BD do?

The airbag control unit FL3T-14B321-BD controls the restraint system (SRS) in the Ford. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, decides in an accident within a fraction of a second which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously.

If the unit detects a fault, it reports it via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. The warning light is therefore the most important indication that something is wrong in the restraint system.

After an accident the control unit stores crash data and locks itself. Only the repair lifts this lock.

Why does the control unit FL3T-14B321-BD fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag was triggered. A normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other possible causes are aged components, moisture, corrosion and voltage spikes.

This data remains in the memory even if the vehicle continues to drive normally afterwards. Airbag24 erases it during the repair.

Other possible causes include:

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

How can you tell that the FL3T-14B321-BD is defective?

A defect shows itself through the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which stays on continuously or intermittently, through fault messages in the instrument cluster, and through a diagnostic tool that cannot establish a connection. A fault memory that cannot be cleared also indicates a problem.

• airbag warning light on continuously or intermittently
• fault message in the instrument cluster
• diagnostic tool cannot establish a connection to the control unit
• fault memory cannot be cleared

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not trigger with a defective control unit. Therefore take any of these signs seriously and have the fault memory checked.

Which vehicles is the FL3T-14B321-BD fitted in?

The FL3T-14B321-BD is fitted in these vehicles: Ford F-150 13th generation (2014-2020).

The following list shows the models that belong to this part number:

• Ford F-150 13th generation (2014-2020)

First compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. That only ensures you have the right unit in front of you. Also have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only the log shows whether the control unit itself or a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers HL3T-14B321-AC.

How does the repair of the FL3T-14B321-BD work?

Airbag24 needs 3–4 working days for processing. Beforehand you have the fault memory read out, enclose the log, disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Then you create a repair order online and send in the well-packed unit.

At Airbag24 the unit is examined on the test bench. Defective components are replaced, stored crash data is erased and a function test is carried out.

Afterwards your own, repaired 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 FL3T-14B321-BD get to Airbag24?

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

Pack the unit shockproof and put the printed repair order into the parcel.