Airbag control unit with part number 89170-02160

What does the airbag control unit 89170-02160 do?

The airbag control unit 89170-02160 forms the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) in Toyota. It processes the messages from the crash sensors and decides in a fraction of a second in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered. After an accident, it stores crash data and locks itself; faults in the system are reported via the airbag warning light.

The control unit continuously checks whether sensors, trigger circuits and seatbelt pretensioners are correctly connected and working. This monitoring runs in the background throughout driving.

Anyone who understands the device will recognise more quickly that a fault is not always caused by the control unit itself. The cause can lie in the wiring or in plug connections around the unit.

Why does the control unit 89170-02160 fail?

For the control unit 89170-02160, the most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has triggered; a normal diagnostic tool cannot remove it. Other causes include aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start.

The entry remains in the memory even when the vehicle is long since ready for the road again.

The other causes tend to develop slowly. An oxidised contact or a cold solder joint can interrupt a connection without a clear fault appearing straight away.

How can you tell that the 89170-02160 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster stays on constantly or only intermittently. An error message may also appear in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit 89170-02160, and the fault memory cannot be cleared. In an emergency, the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

The light indicates a detected fault. If it does not go out after starting, have the system checked.

If the connection to the diagnostic tool cannot be established, this points to the control unit itself or to its connection.

Which vehicles is the 89170-02160 fitted in?

The control unit 89170-02160 is fitted in these vehicles: Toyota Corolla E120 (2001-2004) and E120 Facelift (2004-2007).

The following list shows the vehicles assigned to this part number.

• Toyota Corolla E120 (2001-2004)
• Toyota Corolla E120 Facelift (2004-2007)

First compare the part number on the label of your removed unit with this page. That only ensures that you have the right unit in front of you. Then have the fault memory read out, because only this result shows whether the control unit or a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 89170-02180, 89170-02240, 89170-02390, 89170-02411, 89170-02G60, 89170-12160.

How does the repair of the 89170-02160 work?

For the 89170-02160, first have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery, and only then remove the control unit. Create the repair order online and send in the well-packed unit. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Pack the unit well before sending it in. Airbag24 checks it on the test bench, replaces defective components, deletes stored crash data and carries out a function test. Your own unit is then returned to you.

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 89170-02160 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 89170-02160 as a parcel, or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns it by UPS.

Put the printed repair order into the parcel and pack the unit shock-proof.