B130555 - Internal fault in the control unit airbag control unit fault

What does error code B130555 mean in the airbag control unit?

Error code B130555 stands for an internal fault in the airbag control unit, that is, a fault located in the control unit itself. The control unit records this fault in the fault memory and switches on the airbag warning light on the dashboard so that you can recognise the fault directly in the vehicle.

The restraint system comprises the airbag control unit, the airbag modules and the sensors. The signals from these components converge in the control unit and are evaluated there.

As long as the fault remains stored, the airbag warning light stays on. The fault cannot simply be cleared and remains in the fault memory until it is no longer present.

How do you recognise error code B130555?

Error code B130555 shows itself through a permanently lit airbag warning light, because the code is stored in the vehicle's fault memory. It cannot be permanently erased, and without a diagnostic tool you cannot identify the code, even when the warning light is already on.

If the airbag warning light does not go out again after starting, a stored fault is present in the airbag system. With this code, it concerns the control unit itself.

You can only see the code when a diagnostic tool reads out the fault memory. For this, the tool is connected to the vehicle, and the code then appears in the list of stored faults.

What causes error code B130555?

Error code B130555 is caused by faults in the airbag control unit itself, which can result from crash data after an accident, ageing electronic components or moisture. In addition, there are soldered joints in the control unit, corrosion, and voltage spikes from a weak battery or a jump start that place an electrical load on the unit.

• Crash data that remain in the control unit after an accident
• Ageing electronic components
• Soldered joints on the circuit boards in the control unit
• Moisture and corrosion in the housing or on the contacts of the control unit
• Voltage spikes from a weak battery or a jump start

Which cause is present is only shown by the inspection. This also applies when nothing can be seen externally on the vehicle.

In which vehicles does error code B130555 occur?

Error code B130555 is known on Audi vehicles, namely the Audi S3 8YA Sportback. The list is not complete, and on other vehicles, for example other Audi model series, the meaning of the code may differ in individual cases.

So far, only the Audi brand and the Audi S3 8YA Sportback have been named. If in doubt, reading out the fault memory will clarify whether your vehicle is affected.

How is error code B130555 resolved?

Error code B130555 is resolved by having the fault memory read out with a diagnostic tool and by clarifying the cause before any work is carried out. If the cause lies in the control unit, it is removed after the battery has been disconnected and sent to Airbag24 together with a repair order created online.

First have the fault memory read out with a diagnostic tool. If the findings point to connectors, wiring, an airbag module or a sensor, have these parts checked first at a specialist workshop. Work on the airbag system should be carried out by qualified specialists.

If the cause lies in the control unit itself, for example as an internal fault or due to crash data, proceed as follows. First disconnect the battery, then remove the control unit. Next, create a repair order online and send the unit to Airbag24.

Checking, repairing and testing usually take 3–4 working days. The repaired control unit comes back with all vehicle data and is ready for use as soon as it is refitted — no coding or programming is required.