55: Side And Curtain Deployed

Stored crash data

What 55 means

Side impact deployment happens fast and the control unit records it immediately. Code 55 is the entry describing that the side airbag, the curtain, or both were fired. It is a report of something the module already did, which is why no amount of connector checking will make it go away.

Deployment records are protected in module memory on purpose. Pulling the battery, clearing codes, and swapping fuses leave them untouched, and the airbag lamp stays lit for as long as the record is there. The equipment for clearing them is what our mail-in reset service is built around.

Common causes

• A side impact severe enough for the control unit to fire the side airbag or curtain
• A rollover or lateral event that triggered curtain deployment
• A used control unit installed from a car whose side airbags had fired
• A module put back in service after a repair without the crash record being cleared
• Airbags fired deliberately during salvage handling of the vehicle

Crash data or hardware fault?

Code 55 is stored crash data. It documents a deployment that already occurred and it stays in memory until cleared with the right equipment. Circuit codes work the other way: they report live resistance readings and disappear on their own once the wiring is repaired and the system passes its startup check.

Does our reset clear it?

The mail-in module reset is the correct service for code 55, after the car is repaired. Replace the deployed side airbag or curtain and anything else that fired, repair the harness, and check the side impact sensors in the damaged area. Then remove the control unit and ship it to us. We clear the deployment record and return the module ready to go back in.

Which makes throw it

Subaru writes code 55 for the side and curtain firing output. The definition covers both, so read what actually deployed in the car rather than assuming, since a curtain and a seat side airbag are separate parts with separate costs.

What to do next

Identify exactly which airbags fired before ordering anything, because the code covers side and curtain together. Replace what deployed with genuine OEM parts, inspect the pillar and sill for harness damage, and check the side impact sensors in the struck area. With the car back together, send the control unit in for reset. We can supply Subaru side airbags and curtains, and you can reach us at 501-988-0611. Related codes: 53, 61, BB.