What is a Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit?
The Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit is the central safety unit in the vehicle, precisely activating all occupant restraint systems, such as airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, in the event of a collision. It continuously monitors sensors, stores relevant crash data, and ensures the proper functioning of the entire passive safety system to provide optimal occupant protection.
This electronic control unit is responsible for the deployment and coordination of the airbags in the vehicle.
It processes critical data from impact, acceleration and collision direction sensors.
Why is the Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit defective?
A Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit is often defective because irreversible crash data is stored after an accident, triggering a functional blockage. This stored information prevents the error log from being erased and causes the airbag warning light to illuminate permanently, requiring repair or replacement to restore full system functionality.
Because crash data is stored in the control unit in the event of an accident, the error memory can be blocked.
This causes the airbag warning light to remain permanently active, indicating that service is required.
General communication errors within the vehicle bus system can also cause the control unit to fail.
Common error codes for Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit repair
When repairing the Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit, the primary and best-documented error code is the "Crash Data Stored" message. This occurs when, after an accident, indelible impact data is stored in the control unit's memory, causing the system to lock up and activating the airbag warning light, requiring professional repair.
- **Error code:** Crash data saved → **Meaning:** After an accident, crash data is stored in the control unit → **Cause:** The control unit blocks the error memory and permanently activates the airbag warning light.
General control unit communication errors can also be diagnosed, although no specific Porsche codes are officially documented for them.
What part numbers are available for the Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit repair?
Four specific and verified original Porsche part numbers are relevant for the Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit repair. These OEM numbers are essential to ensure compatibility and proper function of the replacement part. Using the correct part number is crucial for safety and system integration in your Porsche 991 Targa 4.
- 99161820102
- 99161820103
- 99161820104
- 99161820108
These part numbers are listed explicitly for the airbag control unit of the Porsche 991 Targa and have been confirmed several times.
The manufacturers of these control units are Porsche itself or suppliers such as Bosch, which, however, do not have their own publicly listed Bosch numbers.
Compatibility and installation of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit
The Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit is specifically designed for the 991 series and fits models from approximately 2012 to 2016, including the Carrera 4, Targa 4, and GTS variants. Installation is typically in the vehicle floor under the center console and requires disconnecting the battery before starting work.
The control unit is compatible with the Porsche 911 Targa 4, Carrera 4, Carrera 4S, Targa 4S and GTS versions of the 991.1 series.
For installation, the center console must be removed to gain access to the control unit's mounting nuts.
Connections are made via standardized vehicle bus system connectors (CAN bus) and separate power supply lines.
The importance of a professional Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit repair
A professional Porsche 911 Targa 4 991 airbag control unit repair is essential, as it is a safety-critical component whose proper function is crucial for occupant protection. After any repair or replacement, precise programming and calibration using specialized Porsche diagnostic tools is necessary to ensure flawless integration into the vehicle system and maximize safety.
Repairs or replacement of this safety-relevant component may only be carried out by qualified specialist workshops.
Testing, error analysis, and installing the correct software require specialized knowledge and equipment.
Incorrect programming can impair the function of airbags and other safety systems.