Airbag control unit with part number GB5T-14B321-AC

What does the airbag control unit GB5T-14B321-AC do?

The airbag control unit GB5T-14B321-AC controls the SRS restraint system of Ford in the vehicle. It processes the signals from the crash sensors, decides on airbags and seatbelt pretensioners within a few milliseconds in an impact, and monitors the system continuously. Irregularities appear on the airbag warning light.

The evaluation takes place in the background as soon as the vehicle is powered.

After an accident the unit stores crash data and locks itself. It is unlocked only by the repair.

Why does the control unit GB5T-14B321-AC fail?

The most common cause is stored crash data after an accident, even without an airbag triggering, which cannot be erased with a normal diagnostic tool. Ageing electronic components, dry solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes are also possible.

Crash data is created on impact and then remains in memory. This also applies when no airbag has been triggered.

Electronics age, solder joints can stay cold, and moisture causes plug contacts to corrode.

Voltage spikes, for example with a weak battery or when connected to jump leads, affect the electronics.

How can you tell that the GB5T-14B321-AC is defective?

A fault shows itself through an airbag warning light in the instrument cluster that stays on permanently or intermittently, through a fault message or through a lack of diagnostic connection. In that case there is a possibility that airbags and seatbelt pretensioners do not trigger in an emergency.

The typical signs at a glance:

• warning light that stays on permanently
• warning light that only comes on intermittently
• fault message in the instrument cluster
• diagnostic tool with no connection to the control unit
• fault memory that cannot be cleared

The light reports the finding itself, so a brief look at the instrument cluster after switching on the ignition is worthwhile.

Which vehicles is the GB5T-14B321-AC fitted in?

The airbag control unit GB5T-14B321-AC is fitted in these vehicles: Ford Explorer 5 (2011-2019) and 2 UN105 (1995-2001).

The vehicles stored for this part number are listed below.

• Ford Explorer 5 (2011-2019)
• Ford Explorer 2 UN105 (1995-2001)

Comparing the part number on the label with this page ensures that you have removed the right unit. Have the fault memory read out before removal, because 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 BB5T-14B321-AH, DB5T-14B321-AE, DB5T-14B321-AF, DB5T-14B321-AG, EB5T-14B321-AA, HB5T-14B321-AA.

How does the repair of the GB5T-14B321-AC work?

The process starts with reading out the fault memory, whose log you include with the unit. Only then do you disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. Finally, create a repair order online and pack the unit well before sending it.

At Airbag24 the unit is inspected on the test bench, defective components are replaced, the crash data is erased and a function test is carried out. Your own unit is then sent back to you.

Processing at Airbag24 usually covers 3–4 working days.

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 GB5T-14B321-AC get to Airbag24?

You can send the control unit GB5T-14B321-AC in as a parcel or have it collected by UPS for an extra charge. After the repair it comes back to you by UPS.

Put the printed repair order in the parcel and pad the unit so that it is shock-resistant.