Airbag control unit with part number 98221AJ120

What does the airbag control unit 98221AJ120 do?

In the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru, the airbag control unit 98221AJ120 coordinates deployment. In a crash it decides which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are activated.

The signals from the crash sensors converge in the unit and are evaluated within milliseconds. During operation it monitors the system continuously and reports faults via the airbag warning light.

After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself. The control unit is therefore the core of the safety function that the vehicle relies on.

Why does the control unit 98221AJ120 fail?

With 98221AJ120, the most common cause is an entry of crash data from an accident, even if no airbag has deployed.

Such entries cannot be erased with a normal diagnostic tool. Other possible causes are aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example caused by a weak battery or jump-starting.

Only the examination of the unit shows whether one of these causes applies in an individual case.

How can you tell that the 98221AJ120 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently if there is a fault in the 98221AJ120.

An error message may appear as well. If the diagnostic tool has no connection to the control unit, or the fault memory cannot be cleared, a defect is also likely.

In that case the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not deploy in an emergency, so clarification is important.

Which vehicles is the 98221AJ120 fitted in?

The control unit 98221AJ120 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Legacy BM (2009-2014) and BR (2009-2014); Subaru Outback BR (2009-2014).

The list contains the vehicles that Airbag24 assigns to this part number.

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

Check the part number on the label of the removed unit against this page. This only shows that you have the right unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, as only that result reveals whether the control unit is defective or 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 98221AJ120 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit 98221AJ120. Create the repair order online and send the unit in well packed. At Airbag24, processing usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, erases the stored crash data and carries out a function test. Your unit is then returned to you.

This order protects you during removal. 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 98221AJ120 get to Airbag24?

You send control unit 98221AJ120 as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. Airbag24 handles the return after the repair by UPS.

Enclose the printed repair order and pack the unit shockproof so that it arrives safely.