Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

Function

The airbag control module -J234- is located behind the console on the tunnel. It is equipped with DTC memory. The On Board Diagnostic (OBD) connection for vehicles > 12.95 is located above the relay carrier, for vehicles 01.96 > the OBD connection is located to the right of the instrument cluster, and for vehicles 09.98 > the connection is located in the steering column trim.

The control module detects malfunctions in the airbag system and stores them in permanent memory.

After ignition is switched on, the airbag Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) -K75- lights up for about 3 seconds and then goes out again. If the airbag Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) blinks for a further 12 seconds, this indicates that the passenger-side airbag is deactivated.

- If the airbag Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) -K75- does not go out after about 3 seconds, there is a malfunction in the voltage supply for the airbag control module -J234-. Check DTC memory.

- If the airbag Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) -K75- goes on again, there is a malfunction. Check DTC memory.

To begin troubleshooting, initiate On Board Diagnostic (OBD) and read out stored data using the V.A.G 1551 Scan Tool (ST).

The indicated diagnostic data leads to a DTC table with notes regarding potential malfunction causes and specific repair procedures.


WARNING!
Only check wire routing visually!
Do NOT perform any electrical continuity tests or measurements in the ignition circuit!
Make sure ignition is switched OFF before checking wire routing!

Test requirements for On Board Diagnostic (OBD)

- All fuses OK according to wiring diagram.
- Battery voltage OK (at least 9 volts).