What is a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 airbag control unit?
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 airbag control unit is the central safety unit that activates all occupant restraint systems in the event of an accident. It monitors sensors, stores crash data, and ensures the proper functioning of all airbag modules in the vehicle, which is crucial for safety.
This SRS control unit continuously processes signals from impact sensors, seat occupancy mats, and seat belt pretensioners. It is essential for immediately triggering the necessary protective systems in the event of a collision.
As a genuine Mercedes-Benz part, it is precisely tailored to the specific components of the E-Class W210 from 1995 to 2003. The module is typically located in the passenger footwell or in the center console.
Why is the Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 airbag control unit defective?
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 airbag control unit often fails because it stores crash data after an accident, requiring reprogramming, or due to internal electronic errors and overvoltage damage. A failure is usually indicated by an illuminated SRS warning light and requires professional diagnostics for a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 airbag control unit repair.
Common causes include internal faults caused by aging components or voltage spikes in the vehicle electrical system. Such problems lead to unit failure.
Even after minor collisions, the control unit can be considered defective because it permanently stores crash data. This data must be professionally erased for recommissioning, which is part of the repair process.
Common error codes for Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 airbag control unit repair
For a successful Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 airbag control unit repair, knowledge of specific error codes is essential. These codes signal internal defects, communication problems, or other malfunctions directly within the control unit and assist with precise diagnosis to quickly resolve the failure.
- B1000 → Control unit communication error → Internal defect or faulty connection to the vehicle network.
- B1003 → Control unit error, SRS lamp on → Internal hardware or software error in the airbag control unit.
- B119C → Control unit error (specific diagnosis required) → Generic internal error, requires detailed system analysis.
- B1600 → Control unit error, SRS lamp on → Malfunction in the airbag control unit, which leads to SRS lamp activation.
- B2D92 → Control unit defective → Serious internal defect that affects the functionality of the unit.
- 9004 → Voltage too high (internal control unit error) → Overvoltage or internal controller error in the control unit.
What part numbers are available for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 airbag control unit repair?
For the Mercedes-Benz E-Class W210 airbag control unit repair, two OEM part numbers are primarily relevant: 001 820 22 26 and 001 820 21 26, often listed as A0018202126. These numbers confirm the control unit's compatibility with the W210 model and are essential for correct selection and repair.
The verified original part numbers are 001 820 22 26, also known as 0018202226. These are uniquely assigned to the airbag control unit of the E-Class W210.
Another common OEM number is 001 820 21 26, which also appears without a space (0018202126) or with a leading "A" (A0018202126). There are no confirmed alternative OEM part numbers from external suppliers such as Bosch or Continental for this specific control unit.
Installing or removing the airbag control unit requires specialist knowledge and should always be performed by a specialized workshop. A professional repair of the defective module represents a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to purchasing a new one.