Airbag control unit with part number 98221AJ050

What does the airbag control unit 98221AJ050 do?

The airbag control unit 98221AJ050 is the restraint system (SRS) controller for Subaru. It evaluates the crash sensors, determines within milliseconds in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are to be triggered, and checks the system continuously.

Detected faults are reported via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

After an accident, the control unit stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 98221AJ050 fail?

The most common cause of a 98221AJ050 failure is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed. Other causes include aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Crash data cannot be erased with a standard diagnostic tool. Airbag24 takes care of this step as part of the repair.

Aged components and cold solder joints lead to unstable contacts. Moisture and corrosion at plug connections have the same effect, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or jump-starting, put strain on the electronics.

How can you tell that the 98221AJ050 is defective?

You can recognise a fault in the 98221AJ050 by the airbag warning light, by error messages, by a missing connection to the diagnostic tool, and by a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

These signs point to a fault:

• Airbag warning light on permanently or intermittently
• Error message in the instrument cluster
• Diagnostic tool receives no connection to the control unit
• Fault memory cannot be cleared

In such cases, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not trigger in an emergency. The warning light displays the notice visibly, so a prompt check is advisable.

Which vehicles is the 98221AJ050 fitted in?

The 98221AJ050 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Legacy BM (2009-2014) and BR (2009-2014); Subaru Outback BR (2009-2014).

The following list contains the vehicles on record for this part number:

• 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 you have the correct unit.

Also have the fault memory read out beforehand. Only this result shows whether the control unit itself is faulty or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

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 98221AJ050 work?

Have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. In the next step, disconnect the battery and only then remove the 98221AJ050. Then create a repair order online and pack the unit well for dispatch.

At Airbag24, the unit first goes on the test bench; defective components are then repaired, the crash data is erased and a function test is carried out. Finally, you get your own unit back.

Processing at Airbag24 normally takes 3–4 working days. Reading out, removal and shipping are not included.

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 98221AJ050 get to Airbag24?

The 98221AJ050 reaches Airbag24 either as a parcel, or you can book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 sends the unit back by UPS.

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