Airbag control unit with part number 8K0959655R

What does the airbag control unit 8K0959655R do?

The airbag control unit 8K0959655R is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) in Audi vehicles. It evaluates the crash sensors, determines in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system without pause. If it detects a fault, it reports it via the airbag warning light.

After an accident, the control unit stores crash data and locks itself.

Monitoring runs in the background throughout every journey and requires no intervention from you.

Why does the control unit 8K0959655R fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even when no airbag has deployed, and a standard diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other possible causes are ageing electronic components, faulty solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes caused by a weak battery or jump-starting.

The crash data is the starting point, because it remains in the unit until it is erased during the repair.

Which of the other causes applies only becomes clear from the fault memory. Reading out the fault memory is therefore mandatory before removal.

How can you tell that the 8K0959655R is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently, and an error message appears in the instrument cluster. In addition, the diagnostic tool has no connection to the unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared.

• The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently.
• An error message appears in the instrument cluster.
• The diagnostic tool cannot connect to the control unit.
• The fault memory cannot be cleared.

In an emergency, the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to trigger. Such a finding should therefore be checked promptly.

Which vehicles is the 8K0959655R fitted in?

The control unit 8K0959655R is fitted in these vehicles: Audi Q5 8R Facelift (2012-2017) and 8R (2008-2012).

The following vehicles are known to us for this part number:

• Audi Q5 8R Facelift (2012-2017)
• Audi Q5 8R (2008-2012)

First check whether the part number on the label of the unit matches this page. This only confirms that it is the correct unit. Also have the fault memory read out, because only this 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 8R0 959 655 B, 8R0 959 655 G, 8R0959655F, 8R0959655H.

How does the repair of the 8K0959655R work?

Have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Next, create a repair order online and pack the unit well for dispatch.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, repairs the defective components, erases stored crash data and carries out a function test. Processing usually takes 3–4 working days and covers only this work at Airbag24.

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 8K0959655R get to Airbag24?

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

Put the printed repair order into the parcel. Pack the unit shock-proof so that it arrives undamaged.