Airbag control unit with part number 89170-48520

What does the airbag control unit 89170-48520 do?

The airbag control unit 89170-48520 coordinates the restraint system of Lexus. It evaluates crash sensors, triggers the intended airbags and seatbelt pretensioners in an impact, and monitors the system continuously. After an accident, it stores crash data and locks itself.

The unit indicates faults via the airbag warning light, so that you notice warnings early.

The control unit works in the background and continuously checks whether the sensors and wiring are in order.

Why does the control unit 89170-48520 fail?

The most common cause is crash data from an accident, even without a triggered airbag; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion on plug connectors, and voltage spikes are further possible causes. Airbag24 erases the crash data during the repair.

Moisture and corrosion attack the contacts in plug connectors, and aged components lose reliability over time.

Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start, can cause additional damage.

How can you tell that the 89170-48520 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster stays on permanently or flickers intermittently, error messages appear on the display, the diagnostic tool cannot find the control unit, or the fault memory persists. Airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not be able to deploy in an emergency.

The warning light is the direct indication of a defect. Do not ignore it; have the fault memory read out.

Even if the diagnostic tool cannot make contact, a close check of the connection to the control unit is worthwhile.

Which vehicles is the 89170-48520 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 89170-48520 is fitted in these vehicles: Lexus RX AL10 Facelift (2012-2015) and AL10 (2009-2012). What counts is the control unit with exactly this number, not a device that merely looks similar.

The following list shows which models are affected:

• Lexus RX AL10 Facelift (2012-2015)
• Lexus RX AL10 (2009-2012)

Comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page only confirms that you have the right unit. The question of whether the control unit is defective, or whether a plug or cable is the cause, is answered only by the fault memory read out beforehand.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 1503001853, 8917048380.

How does the repair of the 89170-48520 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log, then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. Afterwards, create a repair order online and send the unit in, well packed. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, erases the stored crash data and carries out a function test. Afterwards, your own repaired unit is 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 89170-48520 get to Airbag24?

Either you send the unit as a parcel, or you book a UPS collection for an extra charge. Airbag24 returns the unit via UPS after the repair. Enclose the printed repair order in the parcel and pack the unit shockproof.

A sturdy box with filling material keeps the electronics safe during transport.