Can a 2nd hand airbag module be fitted?

[sat1983]

Some say yes some say no. What is the definitive answer.

[anonymous-user]

There is NO definitive answer !!


Any chance you could tell us make and model?

The "later" the car, the less likely you can fit another module without it being "coded" to the car etc!

You need to insure that the module has exactly the correct part number, and that you have a main dealer check the firmwear level for a match to your existing unit.

(modules are precisely calibrated to you model of car, using the wrong firmwear would be a bad move)


(also, generally, the modules are very reliable, most of the time it is NOT the module that is at fault)

[sat1983]

Max_Torque said:

There is NO definitive answer !!


Any chance you could tell us make and model?

The "later" the car, the less likely you can fit another module without it being "coded" to the car etc!

You need to insure that the module has exactly the correct part number, and that you have a main dealer check the firmwear level for a match to your existing unit.

(modules are precisely calibrated to you model of car, using the wrong firmwear would be a bad move)


(also, generally, the modules are very reliable, most of the time it is NOT the module that is at fault)

A supposed trusted auto electrician diagnosed the module at fault. Lupo GTI 2001. It surely isn't a main dealer only job?

[annodomini2]

More interesting point is: Would you trust a 2nd hand Airbag? I certainly wouldn't

[sat1983]

annodomini2 said:

More interesting point is: Would you trust a 2nd hand Airbag? I certainly wouldn't

No- you're right. However if I knew the car, perhaps. But you're right- you can't really scrimp and save on 'bags.

[Zoobeef]

You could always test it first with a 12v battery


I wouldn't have any hesitation on using a second hand module. As long as the manufacture date isnt in the 1800's and theres no obvious damage

[Mr2Mike]

annodomini2 said:

More interesting point is: Would you trust a 2nd hand Airbag? I certainly wouldn't

Perhaps more interesting, but certainly less relevant The OP appears to be talking about the control module, not the bag itself.

[stevieturbo]

And on both counts....wouldnt bother me to use either.

At what point does an airbag become second hand ? I know any fitted to my cars are not brand new.

[sat1983]

It sounds as though some can't be coded to the car. It's a gamble.

[was8v]

sat1983 said:

It sounds as though some can't be coded to the car. It's a gamble.

That's what "they" said about the 2nd hand dashpod unit I fitted to my old TT. They also said I couldn't adjust the mileage to be correct for the car. I did both with a laptop and 2x £20 cables from ebay.

For airbag coding procedure see:
http://www.ross-tech.com/vag-com/cars/airbag-codin...

Just make sure the airbag is the same model number and doesn't look like its taken any knocks / got wet etc.

[porka911t]

BBS REMAN
THEY ARE ALL OVER THE COUNTRY, THEY FIX, RESET OR RE CODE MOST MAKES.