What is a Porsche 911 Targa 993 airbag control unit?
The Porsche 911 Targa 993 airbag control unit is the central safety unit that activates all occupant restraint systems, such as airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, in the event of an accident. It continuously monitors airbag sensors, evaluates crash data, and ensures the proper functioning of all airbag modules for maximum vehicle safety, essential for Porsche 911 Targa 993 airbag control unit repair.
This specialized electronic control unit is designed for the Porsche 911 (Type 993) model years 1994 to 1998. It controls both the driver-side and passenger-side airbags and is deeply integrated into the vehicle's diagnostic system.
Why is the Porsche 911 Targa 993 airbag control unit defective?
A Porsche 911 Targa 993 airbag control unit often malfunctions due to internal component failures, age-related failure, or damage from overvoltage. Typical error codes such as "Internal Error" or "Control Unit Defective" then occur, necessitating urgent Porsche 911 Targa 993 airbag control unit repair to restore driving safety.
Common causes of failure are internal electronic defects, which often manifest themselves as an illuminated airbag warning light. This can be caused by aging components or external influences.
A low voltage in the vehicle battery or communication problems with other vehicle systems can also cause the airbag control unit to enter a fault state. These malfunctions impair the system's function and require diagnostics.
Common error codes for Porsche 911 Targa 993 airbag control unit repair
During a Porsche 911 Targa 993 airbag control unit repair, specific error codes occur that indicate internal defects, power supply, or communication problems within the control unit. These codes are stored in the error log and cause the airbag warning light to illuminate, making a detailed diagnosis essential.
- **Code 19:** Airbag warning light – leakage current, short to positive, or open in the control module circuit.
- **Code 48:** Internal error in the airbag control unit – Characteristic of a defective control unit itself, often a reason for its replacement or repair.
- **Code 100:** Control unit defective or communication error – Indicates a failure or communication problem with the airbag ECU.
- **Code 101:** Control Unit Defective – Another specific message for an internal control unit error that indicates a repair.
- **Code 102:** Control Module Defective – Indicates another type of internal control module defect that affects functionality.
- **Code 103:** Control unit defective – Also signals a specific error within the control unit, which should be referred to a workshop.
- **Code 1 & 2:** Airbag Warning Light (General) – General error messages that indicate a problem in the airbag system that is detected by the control module.
- **Code 17:** Battery voltage too low – May cause the airbag control module to enter a fault condition, resulting in failure symptoms.
- **Code 20, 21, 36:** Driver Deployment Circuit Error – Problems with the driver airbag deployment circuit detected and reported by the control module.
- **Code 26, 27, 39:** Passenger Airbag Detonation Circuit Error – Problems with the passenger airbag detonation circuit, also diagnosed by the control module.
What part numbers are available for the Porsche 911 Targa 993 airbag control unit repair?
For Porsche 911 Targa 993 airbag control unit repair, two OEM part numbers are primarily relevant: the original Porsche number 993.618.217.00 and the Bosch/Porsche alternative 996618217BX. Both numbers identify airbag control units that are compatible and ensure full functionality for this specific model, which is crucial for repairs.
The primary and most commonly encountered OEM part number for the airbag control unit in the Porsche 911 Targa 993 is 993.618.217.00. This number is used directly by Porsche for the 993 series and is listed in official catalogs, underscoring its authenticity.
Another important OEM part number is 996618217BX, which is supplied by Bosch and serves as a compatible replacement part. These control units are suitable for the 993 as well as the 996 and 986 models, with full functionality for the 993 Targa.