System Self-Diagnosis

Airbag system, self-diagnosis

The airbag control unit (J 234), located behind the vehicle's center console, is capable of system selfdiagnosis. Airbag system components are monitored electrically, and any interferences in operation can be detected. These interferences, or "faults," are then stored in the control unit memory, which can differentiate between 20 different types of malfunctions. After system diagnosis and servicing, the control unit fault memory can be erased.

Self-diagnosis is only possible when diagnostic tester VAG 1551 is connected to the control unit memory. Access to the memory is available at the vehicle's remote diagnostic connector, located under the center console near the shift selector lever. A properly connected VAG 1551 will display any faults that have accumulated since the last erasure. Tables included in this Repair Group provide fault readout interpretation.