Airbag control unit with part number P68204438AB

What does the airbag control unit P68204438AB do?

The airbag control unit P68204438AB coordinates the restraint system (SRS) at Jeep. It evaluates the crash sensors, decides in an accident whether airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

The evaluation takes place within milliseconds and without intervention by the driver.

Faults found are indicated by the unit via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, so that the condition of the system remains visible.

Why does the control unit P68204438AB fail?

The most common cause is stored crash data after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other causes include aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes. Airbag24 erases the crash data during the repair.

Data from an earlier accident stored in memory is not noticed on the unit. Anyone who has not seen an airbag deploy does not necessarily think of a connection when a failure occurs.

Voltage spikes stress the electronics, for example with a weak battery or a jump-start. Moisture and corrosion on the plugs impair the contact.

How can you tell that the P68204438AB is defective?

A defect shows on the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which lights continuously or intermittently, and on an error message in the instrument cluster. In addition the diagnostic tool gets no connection to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared.

As long as the light is on, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not deploy in an emergency. This is a clear reason to have the cause clarified quickly.

The warning light makes the defect visible. Which point is affected is shown only by the investigation in the fault memory.

Which vehicles is the P68204438AB fitted in?

This part number is in use at Jeep. The control unit P68204438AB is fitted in these vehicles: Jeep Compass MK (2007-2010) and MK Facelift (2011-2016).

In detail these are the vehicles:

• Jeep Compass MK (2007-2010)
• Jeep Compass MK Facelift (2011-2016)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This only confirms that you have the correct unit. Have the fault memory read out before removal, because only the log shows whether the control unit itself is defective or whether a plug or cable is behind it.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers P68186642AD.

How does the repair of the P68204438AB work?

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

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, erases stored crash data and carries out a function test. After that the unit comes back to you.

Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days. This period applies only to checking, repairing and testing, not to reading out, removal or shipping.

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 P68204438AB get to Airbag24?

The unit goes to Airbag24 as a parcel, or you arrange a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair Airbag24 sends it back to you by UPS.

Pack the control unit shock-proof and enclose the printed repair order.