What is a Ford Focus ST Mk3 airbag control unit?
The Ford Focus ST Mk3 airbag control unit is your vehicle's central safety unit, which specifically activates all occupant restraint systems, such as airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, in the event of an accident. It continuously monitors sensors, stores relevant crash data, and ensures the proper functioning of the entire safety system for optimal protection.
This electronic control unit, also called the Restraint Control Module (RCM), is an integral part of Ford's Intelligent Protection System (IPS).
It processes signals from various impact sensors to precisely detect the severity and direction of an impact and trigger the protection systems gradually.
Why is the Ford Focus ST Mk3 airbag control unit faulty?
The Ford Focus ST Mk3 airbag control unit often fails due to internal malfunctions, for example, due to overvoltage, aging components, or the storage of crash data after an accident, which requires a hardware reset. An internal short circuit or a communication error can also lead to failure.
A typical reason for failure is the storage of crash data after a collision, which requires a hard reset of the module.
Internal defects such as cold solder joints or damaged processors can also lead to a failure and require a professional Ford Focus ST Mk3 airbag control unit repair.
Sometimes external factors such as water damage or faulty wiring can also contribute to a defect in the control unit itself.
Common error codes for Ford Focus ST Mk3 airbag control unit repair
During Ford Focus ST Mk3 airbag control unit repair, specific error codes indicate problems directly related to the control unit or its core functions. These codes assist in precise diagnosis to determine whether an internal defect or a communication issue is the cause of the illuminated airbag warning light.
- B1342 → Airbag control unit internal error → Control unit defective or damaged.
- B1000 → Control unit communication error → Problems with the data connection to the module.
- B1869 → Airbag warning lamp control circuit open or short to ground → Wiring or internal circuit of the warning lamp on the control unit.
- B1870 → Airbag warning light control circuit short to battery → Problems with the power supply to the warning light or its wiring.
- B0090 → Left Frontal Restraints Sensor Error → Sensor reports error to the control unit.
- B0095 → Right Frontal Restraints Sensor Error → Sensor reports error to the control unit.
These error codes are crucial for accurate diagnosis and may indicate the need for a Ford Focus ST Mk3 airbag control unit repair.
A professional diagnosis is essential to determine the exact cause of the problem and avoid unnecessary repairs.
What part numbers are available for the Ford Focus ST Mk3 airbag control unit repair?
For a successful Ford Focus ST Mk3 airbag control unit repair, exact OEM part numbers are crucial to ensure part compatibility. These specific numbers uniquely identify the control unit and ensure that the replaced or repaired module perfectly matches the vehicle's specifications.
Two of the 100% verified OEM part numbers for the Ford Focus ST Mk3 Airbag Control Unit are:
- 8S4314B321BE : This is a genuine Ford (OEM) part number for the Restraint Control Module (RCM).
- 2M5T14B056DE : This number identifies an OEM-compatible airbag control unit, often manufactured by Bosch.
The correct part number is crucial because the airbag control unit is vehicle-specific and often needs to be programmed to the vehicle identification number (VIN).
Replacing or repairing the Ford Focus ST Mk3 airbag control unit usually requires subsequent reprogramming by a specialist workshop.