Airbag module replacement confusion.

[elgyqc]

I have read a lot of discussions on airbag modules and remain confused.
It is mentioned in many threads that the VIN number has to be programmed into a replacement airbag module, using one of Porsche's diagnostic tools. But there are a couple of threads of just replacing the module with a used one, resetting the error codes and all is good.
This is an example:
http://986forum.com/forums/diy-project-guides/51789-diy-airbag-module-replacement-reset.html
So is the reprograming of the VIN really necessary?

My Durametric gives a list of codes for the airbag, but the important ones are:
"3 - Supply voltage
195 - Control module internal fault - All fault codes over 100 indicate a critical fault and usually require a new control module"

I checked the supply voltage and it is OK... so it would seem that the module is defective.

Thus my interest in replacing the module.

[JFP in PA]

Yes, it may need to be coded to the car, depending upon where the module came from. If it is out of a similar year Boxster, probably not, if it is either new or reconditioned, or from a model other than a Boxster, then yes, it will need to be coded to the car. And it might be worth the cost to get it checked by someone with a PIWIS unit, a brand new module is about $1,200 at retail.............................

[Zogg]

Did you ever figure this out? I replaced my module and now I’m getting code 72 only. I can reset it but it comes right back.

[elgyqc]

Originally Posted by Zogg

Did you ever figure this out? I replaced my module and now I’m getting code 72 only. I can reset it but it comes right back.

No I never got around to replacing it, but since I'm selling the car I may have to do this in the Spring. Hopefully others will jump in.

[Starter986]

Remember when, in the old days, if you needed to repair something... needed answers... a manual... you went to the library, and they told you the book was out and would be retrned in a month...

No, you don't.

Hey... the Internet was invented. That devil, Google... worrks!

Fault codes 70, 71, 72, 73
Child seat detection
Diagnostic conditions
• Ignition on
Possible cause of fault
♦ Incorrect coding
♦ Plug connection of child seat detection belt buckle not connected or damaged
♦ Short circuit to B+/ground or open circuit in the wiring between the airbag triggering unit and the child seat detection belt buckle
♦ Child seat detection belt buckle faulty

[PLP]

Originally Posted by elgyqc

No I never got around to replacing it, but since I'm selling the car I may have to do this in the Spring. Hopefully others will jump in.

I am not sure if you actually did anything, but I took the risk and replaced mine.
I looked up on the eBay donor from similar car - another Boxster, 2002, S version. Close enough to mine - 2003 base.

I disconnected the battery, removed the module using pliers, and put the new one in. Connected the battery and carefully turned the ignition on. Nothing exploded, so I plugged in Durametric.
The 100 codes gone, the other codes cleared - communication is OK.

The only code I have now is 73 for the airbag deactivation - child seat. I will get to it later to see if the buckle is connected and works.

So yes, it can be done.

You can verify by VIN what the car was (donor) and find the closest specs. If you are lucky enough - it will be same components and reset will resolve all issues.