Airbag control unit with part number 89170-48D90

What does the airbag control unit 89170-48D90 do?

The airbag control unit 89170-48D90 is the central switching unit of the restraint system in vehicles of Lexus. It evaluates the crash sensors, decides within milliseconds in an accident whether airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and checks the entire system continuously.

If the unit detects a fault, it reports it via the airbag warning light. After an accident it records crash data and is then locked.

Why does the control unit 89170-48D90 fail?

Stored crash data from an accident are the most common cause, even if no airbag has deployed; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase them. Aged components, cold solder joints, moisture on plug connections and voltage spikes are also possible.

The storage remains in place, even if the vehicle looks unremarkable from the outside.

The remaining causes act gradually: components age, solder joints lose their hold, and moisture and corrosion attack plug connections. Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or from jump-starting, can also cause damage.

How can you tell that the 89170-48D90 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster flickers or stays on, a warning message appears, the diagnostic tool cannot find the control unit, or the fault memory remains. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

This warning light is the vehicle's most direct sign of a problem in the restraint system. A prompt check at a workshop is therefore worthwhile.

Which vehicles is the 89170-48D90 fitted in?

The control unit 89170-48D90 was fitted in these vehicles: Lexus RX AL20 Facelift (2019-2022) and AL20 (2015-2019).

Here is the overview of the models:

• Lexus RX AL20 Facelift (2019-2022)
• Lexus RX AL20 (2015-2019)

Compare the part number on the label of the unit with this page to make sure it is the right one. That comparison says nothing more. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, as only its content 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 89170-0E021, 89170-0E260, 89170-48490, 89170-48890, 89170-48A00, 89170-48A10.

How does the repair of the 89170-48D90 work?

The fault memory is read out first, and the log is enclosed with the unit. Then you disconnect the battery and only afterwards remove the control unit. Next create the repair order online and send the unit off well packed. At Airbag24 processing usually takes 3–4 working days.

First the control unit is checked on the test bench. Airbag24 replaces defective components, then the crash data are removed and a function test concludes the process. Afterwards you receive your unit back.

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 89170-48D90 get to Airbag24?

The control unit goes to Airbag24 as a parcel, or alternatively you book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair it comes back to you by UPS.

Packed shock-resistant, with the printed repair order in the parcel, the unit is ready for shipping.