P1636 fault code: what it means

P1636: Engine computer is not hearing from the airbag module. Check the airbag light and its fuse.

Engine and gearbox (powertrain) · Minor

Usual causes, most likely first

blown airbag module fuse
data bus wiring fault
airbag module fault

P1636 by make

Audi

Engine computer is not hearing from the airbag module. Check the airbag light and its fuse.

Usual causes: blown airbag module fuse; data bus wiring fault; airbag module fault

Skoda

Engine computer is not hearing from the airbag module. Check the airbag light and its fuse.

Usual causes: blown airbag module fuse; data bus wiring fault; airbag module fault

Suzuki

Immobiliser information registration malfunction. Usually after replacing ECM, BCM or ABS unit without registration.

Usual causes: module replaced without registration; CAN wiring fault

Volkswagen

Engine computer is not hearing from the airbag module. Check the airbag light and its fuse.

Usual causes: blown airbag module fuse; data bus wiring fault; airbag module fault

What the repair usually costs

Airbag / SRS warning light diagnosisNZ$70–NZ$210 · A$80–A$230
Airbag clock spring (spiral cable) replaceNZ$220–NZ$670 · A$230–A$640

Not sure what P1636 means on your car? Ask Credov.

Before you clear it

Write the code down or photograph the scanner first. A code that comes straight back after clearing points to a fault that is still there. A car whose codes were cleared just before you arrived may be hiding one: the scanner's readiness monitors show "not ready" for a while after codes are cleared.

Researched by Credov from manufacturer and workshop sources. A fault code points to where a fault may be; a workshop confirms it with a diagnosis. Browse all fault codes.