Airbag control unit with part number 8R0959655C

What does the airbag control unit 8R0959655C do?

The airbag control unit 8R0959655C is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) of Audi. It evaluates the crash sensors and decides within milliseconds in a crash which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered.

While driving, the unit continuously checks the components of the system. If it detects a fault, it reports it via the airbag warning light so that the problem becomes noticeable.

After a crash the control unit stores crash data and locks itself. If the restraint system malfunctions, a targeted check of the unit is worthwhile afterwards.

Why does the control unit 8R0959655C fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed, because a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other causes are aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion, and voltage spikes.

• Aged electronic components in the control unit.
• Cold solder joints on the circuit board.
• Moisture and corrosion on plug connectors.
• Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start.

The crash data is held in the unit itself and stays stored there. Reading it out with an ordinary tool does not remove it.

How can you tell that the 8R0959655C is defective?

A defect first becomes noticeable through the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which lights up permanently or intermittently. A fault message in the instrument cluster, a missing connection to the diagnostic tool and a fault memory that cannot be cleared may also appear.

If you notice these signs, you must reckon with airbags and seatbelt pretensioners possibly not triggering in an emergency. The light is a warning signal that must be taken seriously.

A workshop reads out the fault memory and shows where the fault lies. The warning light alone does not name the cause.

Which vehicles is the 8R0959655C fitted in?

The control unit 8R0959655C of the brand Audi is fitted in these vehicles: Audi Q5 8R Facelift (2012-2017) and 8R (2008-2012). Whether your vehicle is included can only be reliably clarified with the vehicle data.

These models are recorded in our assignment for this part number:

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

Compare above all the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This only ensures that it is the correct unit. Also have the fault memory read out in advance, as only the log shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or a 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 8R0959655C work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery, remove the control unit 8R0959655C and create a repair order online.

Then pack the unit and send it in. At Airbag24 it is checked, defective components are replaced, crash data is erased and a function test is carried out before your own unit is sent back.

Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days; it covers checking, repairing and testing exclusively. 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 8R0959655C get to Airbag24?

You ship the unit as a parcel or book UPS collection for an extra charge. Airbag24 sends the repaired control unit 8R0959655C back to you by UPS afterwards.

Important is shock-proof packaging, into which you place the printed repair order.