Airbag control unit with part number 89170-33A60

What does the airbag control unit 89170-33A60 do?

The airbag control unit 89170-33A60 is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) for Lexus. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, decides in an accident within milliseconds on the triggering of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, and monitors the system continuously. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

While driving, the control unit constantly checks the sensors, the wiring and the connection to the triggers. If it detects a fault, it shows it via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

The decision in an accident has to be made in a very short time, which is why the unit is connected directly to the vehicle electrical system and the sensors. The lock after an accident is part of how the system works.

Why does the control unit 89170-33A60 fail?

The most common cause is stored crash data after an accident, even if no airbag was deployed; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. In addition there are 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 crash data stays stored in the control unit until it is erased. Airbag24 erases it during the repair, so erasing it is not a separate step that you need to carry out yourself.

The other causes develop over time or through external influences. Electronic components age, solder joints can become cold, and moisture affects plug connections. Voltage spikes in the vehicle electrical system put additional strain on the electronics.

How can you tell that the 89170-33A60 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster stays on permanently or lights up from time to time, a fault message appears in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

The light is the visible sign that something is wrong in the restraint system. Therefore, after switching on the ignition, watch the light and any messages on the display.

A diagnostic tool without a connection to the control unit is a finding that must be investigated before a cause is established.

Which vehicles is the 89170-33A60 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 89170-33A60 is fitted in these vehicles: Lexus ES ASV60 (2012-2015) and ASV60 Facelift (2015-2018).

These vehicles are recorded in our data for this part number:

• Lexus ES ASV60 (2012-2015)
• Lexus ES ASV60 Facelift (2015-2018)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This only confirms that you have the correct unit in front of you. In addition, have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only this log shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 89170-33840, 89170-33850, 89170-33860, 89170-33A00, 89170-33A20, 89170-33A40.

How does the repair of the 89170-33A60 work?

First read out the fault memory and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery and only afterwards remove the control unit. Then create the repair order online and pack the unit well before sending it in.

Airbag24 checks the control unit that is sent in on the test bench. Defective components are repaired or replaced, stored crash data is erased, and a function test follows.

Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days. Afterwards your own unit is returned to you by UPS.

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 89170-33A60 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit in 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-resistant. Adequate padding protects the electronics during transport.