Airbag control unit with part number 89170-53170

What does the airbag control unit 89170-53170 do?

The airbag control unit 89170-53170 is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) for Lexus. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors and decides in a crash, within milliseconds, which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered.

A further task is continuous self-monitoring. If the unit detects a fault, it shows this via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

After an accident the control unit stores crash data and locks itself. The lock is only lifted by the repair.

Why does the control unit 89170-53170 fail?

Stored crash data after an accident is the most common cause, even if no airbag has triggered. A normal diagnostic tool does not make it disappear. Added to this are aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connectors, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery.

The crash data is erased during the repair and remains stored in the control unit until then. The other causes concern the electronics and the connections within the unit. They may have no visible effect until a fault appears.

Jump-starting and a weak battery can produce voltage spikes that strain the electronics. Moisture and corrosion attack the plug connectors.

How can you tell that the 89170-53170 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up constantly or intermittently, a fault message appears in the instrument cluster, and the diagnostic tool gets no connection to the control unit. In addition, the fault memory cannot be cleared. As long as this is the case, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly not deploy in an emergency.

The warning light shows the fault whether it is present permanently or only now and then. Have the fault memory read as soon as the light comes on, so you know where you stand.

Which vehicles is the 89170-53170 fitted in?

The control unit 89170-53170 is fitted in these vehicles: Lexus IS XE20 (2005-2009) and XE20 Facelift (2010-2013).

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

• Lexus IS XE20 (2005-2009)
• Lexus IS XE20 Facelift (2010-2013)

Comparing the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page confirms that it is the right unit. Whether the control unit is defective or a plug or cable is the cause is shown only by reading the fault memory. Have it read out beforehand.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 89170-53110, 89170-53480, 89170-53490, 89170-53540, 89170-53560, 89170-53570.

How does the repair of the 89170-53170 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit; afterwards create a repair order online and send in the well-packed unit. Airbag24 inspects it on the test bench, replaces defective components, erases stored crash data and carries out a function test; processing usually takes 3–4 working days.

The sequence serves safety, because the log records the condition of the system before removal.

After that, your own, repaired control 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 89170-53170 get to Airbag24?

Either you send the unit as a parcel or you book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns it by UPS.

Pack the unit shockproof and attach the printed repair order.