What is a Dodge Caliber PM airbag control module?
The Dodge Caliber PM airbag control unit, also known as the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), is the central safety unit in the vehicle. It precisely monitors all airbag sensors and, in the event of a collision, deploys airbags and seatbelt pretensioners to optimally protect occupants. This component is critical for passive safety and, if defective, requires professional Dodge Caliber PM airbag control unit repair.
As the core of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), this module detects collisions and activates the appropriate restraint systems within milliseconds.
It processes real-time data from various crash sensors and ensures the correct deployment of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners based on impact severity and passenger status.
Why is the Dodge Caliber PM airbag control module defective?
A Dodge Caliber PM airbag control unit often fails due to internal memory, power supply, or communication interfaces being compromised due to age, overvoltage, or accident damage. This often manifests itself as an illuminated airbag warning light. Timely diagnosis is essential for the necessary Dodge Caliber PM airbag control unit repair to restore driving safety.
Internal memory errors, such as those indicated by codes B1100 or B1410, are a common cause because they prevent correct data processing.
Problems with the power supply (e.g. B1200) or communication errors (B1000) can also lead to complete failure of the module, which requires a comprehensive diagnosis.
After an accident, "hard codes" often remain stored, which block the function of the control unit and require a specialized reset for successful repair.
Common error codes for Dodge Caliber PM airbag control unit repair
When diagnosing a faulty Dodge Caliber PM airbag control module, specific OBD-II B codes will occur that directly indicate internal module problems. These trouble codes are crucial for precisely locating the defect and planning the necessary Dodge Caliber PM airbag control module repair, as they do not indicate sensor or seatbelt pretensioner problems.
- B1000: Control unit communication error → The airbag control unit cannot communicate correctly with other vehicle systems.
- B1100: Internal memory error in the airbag control unit → Problems with the internal data memory of the control unit prevent correct function.
- B1200: Power supply error in the airbag control unit → The control unit receives no power supply or an unstable power supply.
- B1300: Airbag control unit internal error → A general, unspecified internal defect in the module.
- B1310: Internal self-test error → The control unit could not successfully complete one of its internal self-tests.
- B1320: EEPROM Error in the Control Unit → Problems with the EEPROM memory, which stores important calibration and vehicle information.
- B1340: Vehicle-to-airbag control unit communication error → Specific communication fault between the vehicle CAN bus and the airbag module.
- B1410: Airbag Control Module Memory Error → Another form of internal memory problem that affects system integrity.
- B1420: Internal diagnostic error → The control unit cannot perform its own diagnostic functions correctly.
What part numbers are available for the Dodge Caliber PM airbag control unit repair?
Several original OEM part numbers exist for the Dodge Caliber PM airbag control module repair, ensuring compatibility with 2007–2012 models and all engine variants. These verified numbers include Mopar and FoMoCo parts that serve as direct replacements or follow-up modules to ensure system integrity.
It is crucial to identify the correct part number because the modules are VIN-specific and replacing them will require reprogramming.
- 68148034AA: Genuine Mopar/Dodge OEM part number, fits 2007 PM models.
- 4672602AB: Mopar spare part number, direct replacement for 68148034AA.
- 4896616AA / 4896616AB: Original Mopar/Dodge OEM part numbers, 4896616AB is the successor.
- P56054203AF: FoMoCo OEM number, also compatible with the Dodge Caliber PM.
- P04896621AE: Mopar/Dodge OEM replacement number for this airbag control module.
- P04672603AE: Another Mopar/Dodge OEM replacement number confirmed for the Dodge Caliber PM.
These part numbers have been verified by independent sources and are specific to airbag control units only, not sensors or other modules.