Airbag control unit with part number 98221AJ180

What does the airbag control unit 98221AJ180 do?

The airbag control unit 98221AJ180 coordinates the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru. It reads the crash sensors, determines the firing of airbags and seatbelt pretensioners within milliseconds in an accident, and keeps the system under constant control.

If it detects a fault, it switches on the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. The driver is thus informed that something is wrong in the restraint system.

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

Why does the control unit 98221AJ180 fail?

Stored crash data is the most common cause, even if no airbag was triggered in the accident. An ordinary diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Aged components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage peaks can also lead to the failure.

The crash data stays in the unit, and its removal is part of the repair at Airbag24.

Voltage peaks arise, for example, from a weak battery or a jump-start. Such loads stress the electronics.

How can you tell that the 98221AJ180 is defective?

An airbag warning light that stays on permanently or intermittently, a fault message in the instrument cluster, a diagnostic tool without connection to the control unit, and a fault memory that cannot be cleared all indicate a defect. The signs include these points:

• airbag warning light permanently or intermittently active
• fault message in the instrument cluster
• no connection to the control unit via the diagnostic tool
• fault memory cannot be cleared

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy, which is why a prompt check is advisable.

Which vehicles is the 98221AJ180 fitted in?

The part number on the unit remains decisive. The control unit 98221AJ180 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Legacy BM (2009-2014) and BR (2009-2014); Subaru Outback BR (2009-2014).

The vehicles in which this control unit was installed are listed below.

• 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. Also have the fault memory read out before removal, because only this log shows whether the control unit 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 98221AJ180 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log, then disconnect the battery before you remove the control unit 98221AJ180. Next, create a repair order online and send the well-packed unit. Airbag24 checks it, repairs it and tests the function.

On the test bench, Airbag24 renews defective components and erases the stored crash data. Processing usually takes 3–4 working days, after which your own unit goes back to the sender.

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 98221AJ180 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98221AJ180 as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. Airbag24 sends the repaired unit back to you by UPS.

The printed repair order goes into the parcel, and the unit must be packed shock-proof.