Airbag control unit with part number 8W0959655AE

What does the airbag control unit 8W0959655AE do?

For Audi, the 8W0959655AE forms the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS). It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, decides in a crash within milliseconds on the triggering of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, and monitors the system continuously. It reports faults via the airbag warning light.

The evaluation depends on the direction and strength of the impact, and the unit checks the ignition circuits continuously. In this way the system remains ready for operation in an emergency.

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

Why does the control unit 8W0959655AE fail?

The most common cause in the 8W0959655AE is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag deployed. With this control unit, deleting the crash data is often not possible. Anyone who wants it deleted should briefly contact Airbag24 before sending the unit in, so that Airbag24 can check the number. Other causes include aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion on plug connectors, and voltage spikes.

Crash data consists of measured values from the moment of impact. It remains in the memory even when the vehicle then drives without any irregularities.

The other causes tend to develop over time. Ageing, moisture at the contacts and voltage spikes affect the electronics, and the unit then reacts more sensitively.

How can you tell that the 8W0959655AE is defective?

A defect in the 8W0959655AE shows itself through the airbag warning light, which lights up permanently or intermittently, through an error message in the instrument cluster, through a lack of connection between the diagnostic tool and the control unit, or through a fault memory that cannot be cleared. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to trigger.

Typical signs at a glance:

• Airbag warning light in the instrument cluster is on permanently or intermittently
• Error message in the instrument cluster
• Diagnostic tool receives no connection to the control unit
• Fault memory cannot be cleared

The warning light indicates the defect, so respond to every time it lights up. Also note the message before you reset anything.

Which vehicles is the 8W0959655AE fitted in?

Our assignment lists this control unit for Audi. The 8W0959655AE is fitted in these vehicles: Audi Q5 FYB Sportback (2020-2024), FY Facelift (2020-2024) and FY (2017-2020).

The vehicles for this part number are listed here:

• Audi Q5 FYB Sportback (2020-2024)
• Audi Q5 FY Facelift (2020-2024)
• Audi Q5 FY (2017-2020)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page; that only confirms that you have the right unit. Also have the fault memory read out beforehand. Only this log shows whether the control unit itself is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 80A 959 655 AA, 80A 959 655 AC, 80A 959 655 AE, 80A 959 655 G, 80A 959 655 J, 80A 959 655 L.

How does the repair of the 8W0959655AE work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery, remove the 8W0959655AE, create a repair order online and pack the unit well for sending.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components and carries out a function test. Airbag24 needs 3–4 working days for testing, repairing and checking.

If you want the crash data deleted, briefly contact Airbag24 before sending the unit in. 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 8W0959655AE get to Airbag24?

You send the 8W0959655AE as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After repair, Airbag24 sends it back to you by UPS.

Enclose the printed repair order in the parcel, and pack the unit shock-proof.