What is a Dodge Stratus JA airbag control module?
The Dodge Stratus JA airbag control unit is the central safety unit in your vehicle, precisely activating all occupant restraint systems, such as airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, in the event of an accident. It continuously monitors sensors, stores important crash data, and ensures the proper functioning of all safety-relevant airbag modules for maximum road safety.
This electronic module plays a critical role in the passive safety of the Dodge Stratus JA from approximately 1996 to 2006. It is responsible for the immediate and correct deployment of the front airbags (driver and passenger side).
The power supply is provided by the 12-volt vehicle electrical system and is protected by separate fuses in the fuse box. The control unit has integrated sensors for detecting impact events and automatically deploys the airbags when necessary.
It is networked with other vehicle control units to coordinate safety functions and indicate fault conditions via the airbag warning light in the dashboard.
Why is the Dodge Stratus JA airbag control unit defective?
A Dodge Stratus JA airbag control module can fail for a variety of reasons, often after an accident because it permanently stores crash data, necessitating a Dodge Stratus JA airbag control module repair. Internal component failure, corrosion due to water ingress, or electrical surges can also cause the system to malfunction or fail, illuminating the airbag warning light.
After a collision, the control unit often blocks further deployments and must be reset or repaired. Even without an accident, an internal electronic fault can cause the airbag system to no longer function properly.
Such defects often manifest themselves as a permanently illuminated airbag warning light in the dashboard. Typical symptoms also include communication errors with other modules or non-erasable error codes.
A professional diagnosis is crucial to determine the exact cause of the failure. Only then can a targeted Dodge Stratus JA airbag control unit repair be performed.
Common error codes for Dodge Stratus JA airbag control unit repair
Dodge Stratus JA airbag control module repairs often involve specific trouble codes that indicate internal control module issues or communication problems. These include codes indicating a loss of communication with satellite modules or internal circuit failures, which require a detailed diagnosis to identify the cause of the malfunction.
- **B1000** → Control unit communication error → Signals internal communication problems of the airbag ECU.
- **U0171** → Lost Communication with Up Front Right Satellite Module → Indicates that the airbag ECU has lost communication with a side module.
- **B1C27** → Left Side Thorax Squib 1 Circuit Open (Example) → Indicates a fault in the circuit of an airbag trigger, relevant to the ECU.
These codes are examples of control unit-specific errors that can occur on Dodge/Chrysler models. It's important to note that there is no publicly available OEM list specific to the Dodge Stratus JA airbag control unit.
Error codes affecting sensors, seatbelt pretensioners, or airbag modules are treated differently when repairing the control unit. A precise diagnosis using a brand-specific device is essential for a successful Dodge Stratus JA airbag control unit repair.
What part numbers are available for the Dodge Stratus JA airbag control unit repair?
For Dodge Stratus JA airbag control unit repair, explicit OEM part numbers for the airbag control unit (ECU) itself are not publicly verified in official catalogs. Instead, there are clearly identified Mopar/Dodge OEM part numbers for the associated airbag modules (driver and passenger airbags), which are closely linked to the Stratus JA system and aid in diagnosis.
Finding a specific OEM part number for the Dodge Stratus JA's standalone airbag control unit is complex. Official sources like Mopar or Chrysler Parts usually list airbag modules or general components, but not an exact ECU part number for this model.
The following OEM numbers are verified for the driver airbag modules:
- **0PJ42RC8AC** (Mopar / Dodge) – OEM Airbag Driver Module Assembly
- **0PJ42RJLAC** (Mopar / Dodge) – OEM Airbag Driver
- **0PJ42SKB** (Mopar / Dodge) – OEM Airbag Driver
The OEM part number **MN25VK9AC** (Mopar / Dodge) is relevant for the passenger airbag. When repairing the Dodge Stratus JA airbag control unit, you should always contact an authorized Mopar dealer or repair shop directly to verify the exact part number for the control unit.
This is crucial because the control unit is often coded specifically for the vehicle and precise assignment is important for system functionality.