Airbag control unit with part number 98221AJ100

What does the airbag control unit 98221AJ100 do?

For vehicles from Subaru, the airbag control unit 98221AJ100 forms the control unit of the restraint system (SRS). It processes the measurement data from the crash sensors, determines in the event of an impact which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners trigger, and checks the other components continuously. Faults appear via the airbag warning light.

After an accident the unit creates crash data and locks itself. This function works unobtrusively in the background, without you noticing it.

The monitoring covers the entire restraint system and does not stop at the control of the airbags themselves.

Why does the control unit 98221AJ100 fail?

Stored crash data after an accident are the most common cause, even without an airbag triggering; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase them. Further causes are aged components, cold solder joints, corrosion on plug connections and voltage spikes.

• Aged components in the control unit
• Cold solder joints on the circuit board
• Moisture and corrosion on plug connections
• Voltage spikes, for example with a weak battery

An accident without airbag triggering therefore does not rule out storage.

How can you tell that the 98221AJ100 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster stays on permanently or keeps coming on. In addition an error message appears, the diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared. Then airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly not trigger in an emergency.

The warning light in particular is a clear indication and a reason for a check.

• Airbag warning light on permanently or intermittently
• Error message in the instrument cluster

Which vehicles is the 98221AJ100 fitted in?

The control unit 98221AJ100 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Legacy BM (2009-2014) and BR (2009-2014); Subaru Outback BR (2009-2014).

Here is the vehicle list:

• 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. That only clarifies whether it is the right unit. Whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause is shown only by the fault memory readout, which you arrange in advance.

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 98221AJ100 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the 98221AJ100. Online you create the repair order and send the unit in well packed. Airbag24 checks it, replaces defective components, erases stored crash data and carries out a function test; this takes 3–4 working days as a rule.

The sequence is fixed for safety reasons. The time specification refers solely 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 98221AJ100 get to Airbag24?

Either you send the control unit 98221AJ100 as a parcel, or you book a collection by UPS for an extra charge. The return after the repair is likewise handled by UPS.

The printed repair order belongs in the parcel, and the unit must be packed shock-resistant.