What is a Dodge Caravan 1st Gen airbag control module?
The airbag control module (ACM) in the 1st generation Dodge Caravan is your vehicle's central safety unit, responsible for activating the occupant restraint systems (SRS). It monitors all associated sensors, stores relevant crash data after an accident, and coordinates the proper operation of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners.
This control unit, also called the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), is crucial for safety in the event of a collision.
It signals system readiness via a warning light in the dashboard and stores error codes for diagnostic purposes.
Why is the Dodge Caravan 1st Gen airbag control module defective?
A faulty Dodge Caravan 1st Gen airbag control unit is often due to internal errors caused by age, power surges, or an accident. After a collision, the module irretrievably stores crash data, which permanently activates the airbag warning light and makes repair or reset inevitable.
These internal malfunctions can manifest themselves through specific error codes such as B1033 or B1090.
A loss of communication with other systems or a general failure of the unit can also paralyze the airbag system.
Timely diagnosis and repair is crucial to restore the full functionality of the safety-relevant component and permanently deactivate the airbag warning light.
Common error codes for Dodge Caravan 1st Gen airbag control unit repair
When diagnosing a faulty Dodge Caravan 1st Gen airbag control module, specific error codes indicate problems with the module itself, rather than with sensors or seatbelt pretensioners. These codes require precise reading and are critical to a successful airbag system repair.
The most common error codes focus on internal control unit problems and communication failures.
- B1000 → Control unit communication error → The airbag control unit is not receiving signals from sensors or other modules.
- U0171 → Loss of communication with front control unit → Loss of connection between the airbag control unit and a higher-level system.
- B1033 → Internal error in the airbag control unit → Defect within the electronic components of the control unit.
- B1090 → EEPROM memory error in the airbag control unit → Damage to the internal memory, often after a crash.
- B1100 → General malfunction of the airbag control unit → A general malfunction that requires a comprehensive diagnosis.
Codes related to sensors or seat belt pretensioners are not relevant to this specific control unit.
What part numbers are available for the Dodge Caravan 1st Gen airbag control unit repair?
For the precise and safe repair of your Dodge Caravan 1st Gen airbag control module, specific OEM part numbers are critical to ensure compatibility. These validated numbers identify the correct airbag control module for the first generation Dodge Caravan and are valid only for the main control module.
Compatibility with the 1st generation is critical, as later models use different control units.
- 04686939AF → Mopar / Chrysler → Original part number, confirmed multiple times for the 1st generation.
- 04686256 → Bosch (OEM) → One of the original Bosch numbers that serves as the airbag ECU for this model.
- 0285001093 → Bosch (OEM) → Alternative Bosch part number, also verified for the 1st generation airbag control unit.
Please note that these numbers apply specifically to the airbag control unit and not to other components such as sensors or belt tensioners.
Correct part number identification is critical for a successful Dodge Caravan 1st Gen airbag control unit repair.