Airbag control unit with part number 5Q0 959 655 R

What does the airbag control unit 5Q0 959 655 R do?

The airbag control unit 5Q0 959 655 R acts as the central unit coordinating the restraint system (SRS) of Audi. It evaluates the crash sensors, selects within milliseconds in an accident the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners to be triggered, and monitors the entire system.

Faults are indicated via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. The unit works in the background and checks the components continuously.

After an accident the control unit stores crash data and then locks itself.

Why does the control unit 5Q0 959 655 R fail?

Stored crash data after an accident is the primary cause, even if no airbag has fired. A standard diagnostic tool does not erase it. Further causes include aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or jump-starting.

Airbag24 erases the crash data during the repair. The other causes concern the electronics, their connections and the power supply.

How can you tell that the 5Q0 959 655 R is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster stays on permanently or intermittently, an error message appears in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic tool cannot reach the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared.

With such a finding, the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not deploy in an emergency. You should therefore have the warning light checked promptly.

The warning light reports the fault itself as soon as it is present. A warning that does not go out therefore deserves attention.

Which vehicles is the 5Q0 959 655 R fitted in?

The control unit 5Q0 959 655 R is fitted in these vehicles: Audi TT RS FV (2016-2018) and FV Facelift (2018-2023); Audi TTS 8S Roadster (2015-2018) and 8S Roadster Facelift (2018-2023).

The list below shows the vehicles for which this part number applies.

• Audi TT RS FV (2016-2018)
• Audi TT RS FV Facelift (2018-2023)
• Audi TTS 8S Roadster (2015-2018)
• Audi TTS 8S Roadster Facelift (2018-2023)

Comparing the part number on the label with this page only confirms that you have removed the right unit. Have the fault memory read out before removal, because only its content shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a connector or a cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 5Q0 959 655 P.

How does the repair of the 5Q0 959 655 R work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log to the unit. Then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. Next, create a repair order online and pack the unit carefully for sending.

At Airbag24 the control unit is examined on the test bench. Defective components are replaced, the crash data is erased and a function test is carried out before the unit goes back to you. Processing usually takes 3–4 working days.

The order of the first steps serves safety and is fixed.

Our repairs come with 2 years' statutory liability for defects. 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.

How does the control unit 5Q0 959 655 R get to Airbag24?

You send the unit as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 sends it back by UPS. Put the printed repair order in the parcel and pack the control unit shock-proof.

A sturdy carton and enough padding material are needed for transport.