No connection to airbag system.

[Jojjo]

Hi.

I've got an Alfa GT 2004 3.2, and have no access to the airbag system. I have a multiplexed version. It just doesn't connect, and can't find the module. I am planning some work on the floor, that will need removing the seats. This might trigger an airbag failure, and I need to be able to erase the fault afterwards.

Regards, Morten.

[s130]

Could be related to some older Fiat/Alfa Airbag ECUs will only connect with a VAG KKL interface and NOT with ELMs version of the protocol.

You say you have the Multiplexed CANtieCAR interface. Is this 100% compatible with a pure VAG KKL only interface?

In the meantime you need to disconnect the vehicle battery for 30 minutes or more. Overnight would be good. This will ensure that the Airbag ECU is fully dishcarged and non functional BEFORE you attempt to disconnect any of the seat and other connections. The ECU has to be fully discarged, hence the long time, so that it can not detect and disconnections.

[Jojjo]

Thanks for replying.

I will try the other cables. I have had this software since day one, and have used Gendan's bundle with a Stilo from 2002 (sold some years ago), which connected to the airbag ECU. Now, after buying a GT 2004 I upgraded my license to the CANtieCAR just to avoid switching cables and adapters. No problems reaching the engine ECU. Perhaps I need to go back again... I have both ELM and KKL, so I will give it a shot. Perhaps my Ross-Tech cable might work aswell.

[Jojjo]

Just a minor update. It turns out the CANtieCAR can't find ABS or Xenon lights either. It connects to the body computer, engine, aircon etc. And the multiplexed version of Multiecuscan does not find my old Gendan interface or KKL. And my registered software was overwritten by the multiplexed. So... I will try to remove the multiplexed software tonight, install the free version and test the KKL interface.

[Jojjo]

Turns out cantiecar doesn't work as stated. I will return it and go back to switching cables. I can connect with my old cables from Gendan.

[Jojjo]

An update. I have established a dedicated computer for diagnostics - VCDS for VAGs and MultiECUscan for Italians, just to rule out any computer issues.

After pushing the plug really, really hard into the BC, it snapped past some obstacle, and I got connected to the previous mentioned modules + ABS and Xenon this time, but not the airbag. So actually everything - except the airbag system. I am now updated to 4.6R1. I have ordered an extension cable, to see if this solves the connection issues.

Will post back when tested.

MW.