Airbag control unit with part number P04896621AC

What does the airbag control unit P04896621AC do?

The airbag control unit P04896621AC coordinates the restraint system (SRS) for Dodge. It evaluates the sensor data, determines within milliseconds in the event of a crash the triggering of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, and monitors the entire system.

It reports faults in the system via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, so that you notice a disturbance early.

After a crash the control unit stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit P04896621AC fail?

Crash data that remains in the memory after an accident is the most common cause, even if no airbag was deployed. Other causes are ageing electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or jump-starting.

Crash data remains in the unit's memory after an accident. A standard diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Airbag24 erases the crash data during the repair of the control unit.

The other causes concern the electronics and their connections. Components age, solder joints can come loose, and moisture and corrosion attack plug connections. Voltage spikes can additionally damage the electronics.

How can you tell that the P04896621AC is defective?

A defect shows itself through the airbag warning light, which stays on permanently or intermittently, through an error message in the instrument cluster, and through a diagnostic tool that cannot reach the control unit. If the fault memory cannot be cleared, that also points to a defect. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not deploy.

The airbag warning light is the clearest sign the vehicle gives. If it lights up, the control unit has registered a fault, and the restraint system may be limited. Take this finding seriously, even if the car can still be driven normally.

A fault memory that cannot be cleared despite a readout, and a diagnostic tool without a connection, point to a check of the control unit. Whether the cause really lies in the unit is clarified by further diagnosis.

Which vehicles is the P04896621AC fitted in?

The airbag control unit P04896621AC is fitted in these vehicles: Dodge Caliber PM (2006-2009) and PM Facelift (2009-2011).

The following overview lists the vehicles for this part number:

• Dodge Caliber PM (2006-2009)
• Dodge Caliber PM Facelift (2009-2011)

Comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page only confirms that you have the right unit. The condition of the control unit is shown by the fault memory. Have it read out beforehand, because it also shows whether a plug or a cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 4672602AB, 4896616AA, 4896616AB, 68148034AA, P04672603AE, P04896621AE.

How does the repair of the P04896621AC work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log, then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Next create a repair order online and send in the well-packed unit. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

For safety reasons this sequence is mandatory.

At Airbag24 the unit is examined on the test bench. Defective components are repaired, the crash data is erased, and a function test follows. Your own unit is then 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 P04896621AC get to Airbag24?

You either pack the unit as a parcel and send it, or you book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns your own unit by UPS.

The printed repair order goes into the parcel. You pack the control unit shock-proof.