What is a Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control module?
The Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control unit, also known as the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), is your vehicle's central safety unit. It continuously monitors all airbag sensors and seatbelt pretensioners to precisely activate the occupant restraint systems in multiple stages in the event of an accident. This module also stores important crash data and ensures the functionality of the entire airbag system.
This essential component of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) is responsible for ensuring the safety of vehicle occupants.
It acts as the brain of the airbag system by continuously processing data from various sensors in the vehicle.
Why is the Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control module defective?
A Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control module can malfunction or fail for a variety of reasons, often due to crash data being stored after an accident that blocks the system. Internal hardware or software errors, power surges, or power supply issues can also cause the module to fail, requiring repair or a reset to disable the airbag warning light.
The most common cause of an apparent defect is the storage of crash data after an impact, even in minor collisions.
In these cases, the airbag warning light will remain illuminated and the system will be disabled until the control module is reset or a Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control module repair is performed.
Internal component failures or a faulty battery supply can also lead to a failure that requires diagnosis in the workshop.
Common error codes for Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control unit repair
For Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control module repair, the primary concern is with control module-specific error codes, which indicate direct problems within the module itself and are not due to external sensors or wiring. These B-codes will activate the airbag warning light and require a precise diagnosis to resolve the failure.
- B1000 → Communication error → The control unit cannot communicate correctly with other vehicle systems.
- B1100 → Low voltage supply → The power supply to the airbag control unit is insufficient or faulty.
- B1234 → Internal memory error → An error has occurred in the internal data memory of the airbag control unit.
- B1345 → Self-test error → The control unit failed the internal self-test.
- B1760 → Software error → There is a problem with the internal software of the airbag control unit.
- B1A27 → Battery supply faulty → The battery supply to the airbag control unit is faulty.
- B1C27 → Internal control unit error / Circuit Open → An internal circuit error or an open wire in the module is detected.
The presence of stored crash data in the module is also a common problem that locks up the system and requires a professional reset for Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control module repair.
What part numbers are available for the Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control unit repair?
When repairing the Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control unit, it is crucial to use the correct OEM part number to ensure full compatibility and safety. Several Mopar original and aftermarket part numbers exist that are specifically validated for this model and model year and can be used to repair the airbag system.
The following list contains fully validated OEM part numbers for the 2nd Generation Dodge Caravan Occupant Restraint Module (AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT):
| Part number | Manufacturer | type |
|---|---|---|
| 4686602AJ | Mopar | Original |
| 4686602AH | Mopar | Substitute |
| 4686602AG | Mopar | Substitute |
| 4686602AE | Mopar | Substitute |
| 4686602AI | Mopar | Substitute |
| 4686602AD | Mopar | Substitute |
| 4686602AF | Mopar | Substitute |
| 5094019AK | Mopar | Original |
| 68062118AG | Mopar | Original |
| 56054911AE | Mopar | Substitute |
| 04686939AF | Mopar | Original |
| 04606927AC | Mopar | Original |
These numbers ensure that you will receive a genuine or compatible Mopar replacement part for your Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control unit repair.
Technical details and functions of the Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control unit
The Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen Airbag Control Module (ORC) controls and monitors the entire Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) by processing data from all sensors, enabling multi-stage airbag deployment, and storing crash data. In the event of a malfunction or after an accident, the airbag warning light is activated, requiring professional diagnosis and, if necessary, a Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen Airbag Control Module repair to restore the system to full functionality.
It supports multi-stage front airbags that adapt to the severity of the impact to provide optimal protection for occupants.
After an accident, crash data is stored in the module that cannot be deleted manually and requires a professional reset.
The control unit has an error memory that stores all relevant codes for the airbag warning light, making troubleshooting easier in the event of a failure.
Installation and maintenance of the Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control unit
The Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control module is typically installed under the driver's seat or in the center floor of the vehicle, where it connects to all airbag components and the vehicle's electronics via multi-connectors. For Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control module repair and replacement, it is essential to disconnect the vehicle's battery and seek professional assistance to avoid safety risks and ensure correct programming.
The connectors include connections to airbag sensors, seat belt pretensioners, the OBD-II diagnostic interface and the vehicle electronics.
The module has its own power supply with fuse.
During installation or repair, it is crucial to always disconnect the vehicle battery to prevent accidental airbag deployment.
Some modules require specific programming to the vehicle identification number (VIN) after replacement for full compatibility.
Compatibility: Which models is the Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen Airbag Control Unit suitable for?
The Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control module is specifically designed for the second generation of the Dodge Caravan and Dodge Grand Caravan, typically from 2000 to 2010, especially from 2002 to 2009. A Dodge Caravan 2nd Gen airbag control module repair refers to these models, as the modules are not readily compatible with other vehicle generations or types to ensure proper function of the occupant safety systems.
Compatibility extends to vehicles with 3.3L and 3.8L engines in this series.
It is important to ensure that the part number of the replacement part matches the requirements of your specific vehicle to ensure a smooth replacement.
Although there may be different software and minor hardware variations, they all fulfill the basic functions of the 2nd generation airbag control.