MarkFank

For those that get a dreaded air bag light, there may be a simple solution before you start replacing the air bag module or wiring harnesses.

I had this code once before about 3 months ago and it came back. My issue seems to be a problem in the connector.

The fault code is:

Control Module Part Number: 8D0 959 655 G
Component and/or Version: Airbag Front+Kopf 0002
Software Coding: 00304
Work Shop Code: WSC 06325
1 Faults Found:
01217 - Side Airbag Igniter: Driver Side (N199)
32-00 - Resistance too High


After talking to an Audi tech, the standard operating procedure to fix this is to replace the airbag inside the seat. Only about an $800+ job. After searching the archives, it seems that the connectors in different locations are also a culprit.

For this particular error code, here was my fix. First, remove the cover located at the bottom of the A pillar. There are 2 phillips head screws to remove. One is behind a cover that can be popped off with a thin flat-head screwdriver and the other is near the top by the hood release handle.

<img src="http://www.fankhauser.info/airbag1.JPG">

The air bag connector is circled in green in the next picture. To loosen the connector from the main panel, grab it lightly and pull towards the floor and it should pop free. Then I separated the connector &amp; used some compressed air to clean out any dust. Snap it back together, clear the fault code &amp; I do not get the air bag warning light! Hopefully this will be of use to someone in the future with the same issue. If I continue to have this problem, I will probably remove the connector &amp; solder the wires together.

So.... before you replace anything - check all the connectors!

<img src="http://www.fankhauser.info/airbag2.JPG">

SForked

great timing, I just got this code yesterday. I'll try it out, THANKS!

MarkFank

Let me know if this works for you. Takes less than 15 minutes to do. Hope it works!

S4mig@PEB tuning

Our cars are such a wiring nightmare.

S4gasm (LoTR)

kool..one for the archives.

HIS4

I think the next step is to look at the clock spring (I think that's what it's called). But the light doesn't bother me so I've been lazy and left it alone.

kiNGMak.:.OEM

did you disconnect the battery?

MarkFank

Having the airbag deploy would scare the poop out of you and could cause an injury.

spanishtrain

I did the procedure outlined to remove the A pillar and expose the airbag connector. I disconnected the battery jiggled the connector to ensure proper contact. I turned on the ignition and connected the battery. I cleared the code and test drove the car. Airbag light came on and went out after sync with computer. So far so good. I had done the connector Technical service bulletin repair for the connectors under the seat but still had the light. Seems that the issue is this type of connector used.
Audi a4 Quattro 98 still going strong. Thanks to all who took the time to post.

wlmmn

I have this same exact error causing the airbag light to come on: 01217 – side airbag igniter; Drivers Side upper limit exceeded. I took it in to an indy shop and had them do just this: check the connector and clean it. But they told me the connector was clean, and that the airbag light will come back on as soon as it's cleared. Is my only recourse to spend the $810 to replace the airbag?