Airbag control unit with part number 5WK4155-68HC05B16

What is the function of the airbag control unit 5WK4155-68HC05B16?

The control unit 5WK4155-68HC05B16 is an OEM component from Bosch/Siemens that manages the airbag system in older Daewoo models such as the Lanos T150. It is often associated with reference numbers 96 217 003 or 96 303 500 and is responsible for reliably deploying the restraint systems in the event of a crash.

As the central control unit of the passive safety system, this module continuously monitors signals from the vehicle’s crash sensors. In the event of a collision, it processes the data in real time and determines whether and which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners should be activated to provide optimal protection for occupants.

The technical design of the control unit is tailored to the vehicle architecture of the Daewoo Lanos T150 (model years 1997–2004). It represents a simple yet robust system that meets the basic safety requirements of this vehicle generation.

Why does the control unit 5WK4155-68HC05B16 fail?

The most common causes of failure for the control unit 5WK4155-68HC05B16 are the storage of crash data after an accident, which locks the module, as well as internal electronic faults. Moisture ingress can also lead to component damage and disable the entire airbag system.

After an accident—even minor collisions—so‑called crash data is permanently stored in the control unit’s memory. This results in intentional locking of the device to prevent reuse without professional diagnostics. Consequently, the airbag warning light remains illuminated.

Another frequent cause is internal defects on the circuit board. These may include faulty solder joints, defective microcontrollers, or other electronic components that fail due to age or external factors such as moisture. Such failures deactivate the airbag system and compromise vehicle safety.

It is advisable to have the control unit diagnosed at a specialized workshop before removal. A detailed diagnostic report helps clearly attribute the fault to the control unit itself while ruling out other potential sources of error within the vehicle.

How do you recognize a defect in the control unit 5WK4155-68HC05B16?

A typical symptom of a defect in the control unit 5WK4155-68HC05B16 is the permanently illuminated airbag warning light (SRS warning light) on the dashboard. Often, the control unit can no longer be read by a diagnostic tool, or internal, non‑erasable fault codes appear, indicating a serious malfunction.

The most obvious sign is the persistently lit SRS warning light, which does not turn off even after restarting the engine. In some cases, the light may flash or illuminate simultaneously with the engine check light.

Another clear indication is the lack of communication between the control unit and a diagnostic device. If a workshop attempts to read the fault memory, they cannot access the module, suggesting a complete internal electronics failure.

Even when communication is possible, stored fault codes may point to an internal defect. These codes cannot be cleared, even if the original cause of the error (e.g., a faulty sensor) has been fixed—this is often the case with stored crash data.

In which vehicles is the control unit 5WK4155-68HC05B16 installed?

The airbag control unit with part number 5WK4155-68HC05B16 is specifically designed for Daewoo vehicles. At Airbag24, we primarily repair this control unit for the Daewoo Lanos model of the T150 series, produced between 1997 and 2004.

At Airbag24, we service part number 5WK4155-68HC05B16 for the following model:

Daewoo Lanos (T150 series, model years 1997–2004)

This control unit is also known under alternative reference numbers 96 217 003 and 96 303 500, which were likewise used in the aforementioned models.

How is the control unit 5WK4155-68HC05B16 professionally repaired?

Professional repair at Airbag24 involves a systematic analysis of the removed control unit 5WK4155-68HC05B16. Crash data is erased, and defective electronic components on the circuit board—such as microcontrollers or solder joints—are repaired. Following successful repair and testing, the unit is returned ready for installation.

After sending the removed and securely packaged unit to Airbag24, a comprehensive incoming inspection takes place. Technicians analyze the fault memory and hardware to pinpoint the exact cause of the defect. An accompanying workshop diagnostic report speeds up this process.

The actual repair is performed at the component level. Stored crash data is erased from the memory chip, and the unit is restored to its factory settings. Physical defects, such as faulty solder joints or damaged components, are expertly repaired.

Subsequently, the control unit undergoes a functional test to ensure proper operation. This repair is a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to expensive new purchases, and you receive 2 years' statutory liability for defects on all work performed.