What is an Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit?
The Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit is the central safety unit that activates all occupant restraint systems in the event of an accident. It monitors sensors, stores crash data, and ensures the proper functioning of all airbag modules in the vehicle.
This key component is responsible for precise crash detection and the targeted deployment of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners. It communicates with other vehicle systems via CAN bus to ensure maximum occupant safety.
After an accident, the control unit stores relevant crash data that is essential for diagnosis and possible Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit repair.
Why is the Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit defective?
An Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit often fails because it stores crash data after an accident that needs to be erased, or because internal electronic components fail. Communication errors within the vehicle system or corrosion can also lead to failure, necessitating an Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit repair.
The control unit can be damaged by overvoltage or moisture, which impairs its function and leads to error messages.
Sometimes it's not actually broken, but just needs to be reset to clear the crash data and restore full functionality.
Error codes like B1000 indicate communication problems, while 00588 specifically affects the driver airbag deployment circuit and may indicate internal problems.
Common error codes for Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit repair
During Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit repairs, specific error codes will occur that indicate problems within the system and allow for a precise diagnosis. These codes often signal internal control unit defects, communication problems, or issues with the airbag ignition circuits that need to be addressed.
- B1000: Communication error in the airbag control unit – Often an indication of connection problems in the CAN bus or a defective ECU.
- 00588: Resistance of driver airbag igniter (N95) too high/too low – This classic error indicates internal problems with the control unit, broken wires or bad connectors.
- 9451537: Pedestrian Protection Trigger 1 - Short to Ground - A specific fault code in the Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit indicating a short circuit in the pedestrian protection trigger.
Many of these error codes require special diagnostic tools from VAG or Bosch ESI[tronic] to read and delete.
Crash data stored after an accident blocks the function of the system and can only be removed by a professional Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit repair or a reset.
What part numbers are available for the Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit repair?
For the Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit repair, various OEM part numbers are relevant, ensuring compatibility with the D5 generation from model year 2017 onwards. These numbers, often from Audi or Bosch, identify the specific control unit variants necessary for the safe operation of the airbag system.
The most common Audi OEM part numbers for the airbag control unit include **4N0 959 655 A**, **4H0 959 655 B** and **4H0 959 655 G**.
Older Audi part numbers such as **4E0 959 655 A** and **4D0 959 655 J** may also be relevant depending on the vehicle equipment and model year.
Bosch is the main supplier for Audi control units; corresponding OEM spare part numbers are **0 285 010 713** (equivalent to 4H0 959 655 B) and **0 285 001 276** (for 4D0 959 655 J).
The correct part number is crucial for a successful Audi A8 D5 airbag control unit repair or replacement to ensure the full functionality of the safety system.
Please note that some refurbished control units are also compatible, but often require reprogramming to the vehicle VIN.