Airbag control unit with part number 98221AG14A

What does the airbag control unit 98221AG14A do?

At Subaru the airbag control unit 98221AG14A forms the core of the restraint system (SRS). It processes the signals from the crash sensors, determines in a crash within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously.

If the unit detects a fault, it reports it via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. After a crash it saves crash data and locks itself. Only a repair removes this lock.

Why does the control unit 98221AG14A fail?

The 98221AG14A most often fails because of crash data saved after an accident, even if no airbag was triggered. Added to this are aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion on plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Stored crash data remains when read out with a normal diagnostic tool. Airbag24 removes it as part of the repair.

The other causes act over a longer period: components age, solder joints go cold, and moisture or corrosion attacks the plugs. Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start, put additional strain on the electronics.

How can you tell that the 98221AG14A is defective?

A defect on the 98221AG14A shows up through an airbag warning light in the instrument cluster that lights up permanently or intermittently. In addition there are fault messages in the instrument cluster, no connection to the diagnostic tool, and a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

• The airbag warning light stays on permanently or intermittently.
• The instrument cluster shows a fault message.
• The diagnostic tool cannot reach the control unit.
• The fault memory remains after clearing.

In the event of a crash, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly not trigger. The light indicates the defect, so have it checked promptly.

Which vehicles is the 98221AG14A fitted in?

The 98221AG14A was fitted in several vehicles by Subaru. It is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Legacy BL (2003-2006), BP (2003-2006), BL Facelift (2007-2009) and BP Facelift (2007-2009); Subaru Outback BP (2003-2007) and BP Facelift (2007-2009).

The models concerned are shown in the following list.

• Subaru Legacy BL (2003-2006)
• Subaru Legacy BP (2003-2006)
• Subaru Legacy BL Facelift (2007-2009)
• Subaru Legacy BP Facelift (2007-2009)
• Subaru Outback BP (2003-2007)
• Subaru Outback BP Facelift (2007-2009)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This only tells you that it is the matching unit. Also have the fault memory read out in advance, because only its content shows whether the control unit itself 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 1523006670, 1523008260, 1523008271, 1523008280, 98221AG060, 98221AG170.

How does the repair of the 98221AG14A work?

First have the fault memory read out and send the log with the unit. Then disconnect the battery, and only then remove the control unit 98221AG14A. Next create a repair order online and pack the unit well before sending it in.

At Airbag24 the unit is inspected on the test bench, damaged components are replaced, stored crash data is removed and a function test is carried out. Afterwards your own unit is returned to you.

For checking, repairing and testing at Airbag24, 3–4 working days are generally planned. This period is limited to the 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 98221AG14A get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98221AG14A as a parcel or arrange a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair Airbag24 returns the unit by UPS.

Put the printed repair order in the parcel and cushion the control unit shock-proof.