Airbag control unit with part number 89170-53180

What does the airbag control unit 89170-53180 do?

In Lexus, the airbag control unit 89170-53180 controls the restraint system (SRS). From the sensor data it determines within milliseconds in a crash which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners to trigger, and it continuously checks whether all components function. It indicates faults via the airbag warning light. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

Monitoring takes place throughout the entire operating time. The unit checks the wiring, the output stages and the sensor connection, and every irregularity is recorded in the fault memory.

The control unit is thus the link between sensors and airbags.

Why does the control unit 89170-53180 fail?

Most often this is caused by crash data left behind by an earlier accident, even if no airbag was triggered. A normal diagnostic tool cannot erase this data. Other triggers include aged electronics, cold solder joints with hairline cracks, moisture and corrosion on connectors, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start.

Crash data stored in the memory does not automatically mean that the electronics are damaged. It only shows, initially, that an event has been registered.

The other causes tend to develop slowly. Components lose performance over time, and moisture can attack contacts before a fault becomes visible.

How can you tell that the 89170-53180 is defective?

A defect can be recognised by the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which lights up permanently or intermittently. In addition there may be a fault message in the instrument cluster, no connection to the diagnostic tool, and a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

The warning light is the most visible sign, but not the only one. If the diagnostic tool cannot access the control unit, this also points to a fault that does not affect only the display. A fault memory that cannot be reset is another such indication.

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may fail to trigger. Therefore have it checked promptly and do not wait to see whether the warning clears by itself.

Which vehicles is the 89170-53180 fitted in?

The 89170-53180 is fitted in these vehicles: Lexus IS XE20 (2005-2009) and XE20 Facelift (2010-2013).

The list shows which vehicles match this control unit:

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

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page, so you can be sure you have the right unit. However, this comparison does not establish whether the control unit is defective. Before that, have the fault memory read out, as the log shows whether the control unit is the cause or a connector or a cable.

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 89170-53180 work?

Start by having the fault memory read out and attach the log. Only then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. Next create a repair order online and send in the well-packed unit. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, deletes stored crash data and carries out a function test. The unit then goes back 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 89170-53180 get to Airbag24?

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

The printed repair order goes into the parcel, and the control unit is packed shockproof.