Airbag control unit with part number 98221AG230

What does the airbag control unit 98221AG230 do?

The airbag control unit 98221AG230 coordinates the restraint system (SRS) in Subaru. It evaluates the crash sensors, determines in an emergency the triggering of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, and checks the system continuously. After an accident, it stores crash data and locks itself.

The control unit works on the principle that triggering must happen without delay. For this reason it is wired directly to the sensors and the firing circuits. A detected fault is shown via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

Why does the control unit 98221AG230 fail?

Stored crash data that remains in the unit after an accident is the most frequent cause of failure, even if no airbag has deployed. An ordinary diagnostic tool cannot erase this data. Ageing of the electronics and moisture in the wiring are also possible causes.

The data remains in memory after the accident, even if the vehicle continues to drive.

Aged electronic components and cold solder joints are further causes. Corrosion and moisture at plug connections can likewise trigger the failure.

Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or jump-starting, also belong to the causes.

How can you tell that the 98221AG230 is defective?

A defect is indicated by an airbag warning light in the instrument cluster that lights up permanently or intermittently, a fault message in the instrument cluster, and a diagnostic tool without a connection. A fault memory that cannot be cleared strengthens the suspicion. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

The warning light is the signal that the system has detected a fault. If you see it only now and then, have it checked just as you would for permanent lighting.

Which vehicles is the 98221AG230 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 98221AG230 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Legacy BP (2003-2006), BP Facelift (2007-2009), BL Facelift (2007-2009) and BL (2003-2006); Subaru Outback BP (2003-2007) and BP Facelift (2007-2009). You can match it to your car using the vehicle papers.

The matching vehicles for this part number are listed here:

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

Comparing the part number on the label with this page ensures that you have removed the correct unit. Whether the control unit is defective, or whether a plug or cable is the problem, is revealed only by reading out the fault memory beforehand.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 1523006670, 1523008260, 1523008271, 1523008280, 98221AG000, 98221AG030.

How does the repair of the 98221AG230 work?

You have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then you disconnect the battery and only afterwards remove the control unit. Next, you create a repair order online and send the unit in well packed.

At Airbag24, the unit is checked on the test bench, defective components are replaced, stored crash data is erased and a function test is carried out. Processing usually takes 3–4 working days, calculated for checking, repairing and testing at Airbag24 alone.

The unit then goes back to you. 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 98221AG230 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98221AG230 in as a parcel, or you book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 returns it by UPS.

Enclose the printed repair order with the parcel and pack the control unit shock-proof.