Airbag control unit with part number 89170-0W020

What does the airbag control unit 89170-0W020 do?

The airbag control unit 89170-0W020 acts as the central unit controlling the restraint system (SRS) in vehicles from Lexus. It evaluates the crash sensors, decides within milliseconds in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the entire system.

A fault it detects is reported via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

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

Why does the control unit 89170-0W020 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even without a triggered airbag, which cannot be erased with a normal diagnostic tool. Further causes include ageing electronics, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion on plug connections, and voltage spikes.

An ordinary diagnostic tool cannot reach the stored crash data. During repair by Airbag24 it is erased.

The other causes are ageing of the electronics, cold solder joints, and damp and corrosion on the plugs.

Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or after a jump start, also stress the unit.

How can you tell that the 89170-0W020 is defective?

Typical signs are an airbag warning light in the instrument cluster that lights up permanently or intermittently, and an error message there. In addition, the diagnostic tool cannot connect to the control unit, or the fault memory cannot be cleared.

This warning matters, because in a defect, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not deploy in an emergency.

The indication does not yet reveal which component is affected. Only the read-out fault memory does that, which you or a specialist workshop should have read out.

Which vehicles is the 89170-0W020 fitted in?

The 89170-0W020 is fitted in these vehicles: Lexus RX XU10 Facelift (2000-2003) and XU10 (1997-2000).

You will find the vehicles for this part number here:

• Lexus RX XU10 Facelift (2000-2003)
• Lexus RX XU10 (1997-2000)

Compare the part number on the label of your removed unit with this page; that only shows that it is the right unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, since only this log clarifies whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or cable is causing the fault.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 89170-0W040, 89170-0W080, 89170-0W180.

How does the repair of the 89170-0W020 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Next, create a repair order online and send the unit in well packed.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, erases the stored crash data and carries out a function test. Your own unit is then returned to you. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

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 89170-0W020 get to Airbag24?

You send the unit to Airbag24 as a parcel or book UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 brings it back to you by UPS.

Put the printed repair order into the parcel and pack the unit securely against impact.