Airbag control unit with part number 98221AJ000

What does the airbag control unit 98221AJ000 do?

The airbag control unit 98221AJ000 is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, decides in an accident within milliseconds on the triggering of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, and monitors the system continuously. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

During driving the unit operates without interruption. It checks sensors, wiring and the control of the ignition circuits.

Every detected fault ends up in the fault memory and is shown via the airbag warning light. The lock after an accident remains until the repair lifts it.

Why does the control unit 98221AJ000 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other causes include aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Stored crash data cannot be removed by the owner in everyday use. It stays in the unit until the repair erases it.

Aged electronic components and cold solder joints are among the causes located in the unit itself. Moisture and corrosion attack the plug connections. Voltage spikes arise, for example, from a weak battery or a jump-start.

How can you tell that the 98221AJ000 is defective?

A defect shows as the airbag warning light that stays on permanently or intermittently, an error message in the instrument cluster, no connection to the diagnostic tool, and a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

• Airbag warning light in the instrument cluster on permanently or intermittently
• Error message in the instrument cluster
• Diagnostic tool cannot find the control unit
• Fault memory cannot be cleared

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy. With these signs, the system should be checked promptly.

Which vehicles is the 98221AJ000 fitted in?

The control unit 98221AJ000 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Legacy BM (2009-2014) and BR (2009-2014); Subaru Outback BR (2009-2014).

The following vehicles are assigned to the unit:

• Subaru Legacy BM (2009-2014)
• Subaru Legacy BR (2009-2014)
• Subaru Outback BR (2009-2014)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This only confirms that it is the correct unit. Whether the control unit is defective or a plug or cable is causing the fault is only shown by the fault memory log read out beforehand.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 150300-2150, 150300-2151, 150300-4650, 150300-4670, 98221AE040, 98221AG260.

How does the repair of the 98221AJ000 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Create a repair order online and send the unit in well packed. Airbag24 tests it on the test bench, replaces defective components where necessary, erases the stored crash data and runs a function test. Your own unit is then returned.

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 98221AJ000 get to Airbag24?

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

Put the printed repair order in the parcel and pack the unit shockproof.