Airbag control unit with part number 98221AL06B

What does the airbag control unit 98221AL06B do?

The airbag control unit 98221AL06B is the central unit for the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru. It processes the signals from the crash sensors, decides in a crash within milliseconds about airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, and keeps the system under constant control. Faults are reported via the airbag warning light.

The unit also performs this monitoring in everyday use by checking the wiring and firing circuits.

An accident causes the unit to store crash data and lock itself.

Why does the control unit 98221AL06B fail?

Stored crash data from an accident, even without an airbag deployment, is the most common cause. An ordinary diagnostic tool cannot remove it. Aged electronics, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plugs, and voltage spikes are also possible.

Aged electronic components, cold solder joints, and moisture and corrosion at plug connections can likewise lead to a failure.

Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start, put additional strain on the electronics.

How can you tell that the 98221AL06B is defective?

A defect shows up as the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lighting up permanently or intermittently. A fault message in the instrument cluster, a missing connection to the diagnostic tool, or a fault memory that cannot be cleared also indicate it.

While the fault persists, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may fail to deploy in an emergency.

A prompt check is therefore advisable, even if the signs do not all appear at the same time.

Which vehicles is the 98221AL06B fitted in?

The 98221AL06B is fitted by Subaru in these models: Subaru Legacy BN (2014-2017), BN Facelift (2017-2020), BS (2014-2017) and BS Facelift (2017-2020); Subaru Outback BS Facelift (2018-2021) and BS (2015-2018).

The vehicles as a list:

• Subaru Legacy BN (2014-2017)
• Subaru Legacy BN Facelift (2017-2020)
• Subaru Legacy BS (2014-2017)
• Subaru Legacy BS Facelift (2017-2020)
• Subaru Outback BS Facelift (2018-2021)
• Subaru Outback BS (2015-2018)

Comparing the part number on the label with this page ensures that you have the correct unit. Whether the control unit is defective or a plug or cable is the cause is shown by the fault memory, which you have read out beforehand.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98221AL07A, 98221AN00A, 98221AN00E, 98221AN01A, 98221AN01D, 98221AN10A.

How does the repair of the 98221AL06B work?

You have the fault memory read out first and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery and only now remove the control unit. Next, create a repair order online and send in the unit well packed.

Airbag24 examines the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components and erases the stored crash data. A function test follows, and for checking, repair and test 3–4 working days are usually planned.

Your own unit then comes back to you. 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 98221AL06B get to Airbag24?

A UPS collection can be booked for an extra charge, or alternatively you send the control unit in as a parcel yourself. After the repair, UPS brings the unit back to you.

The printed repair order is enclosed in the parcel, and the unit must be packed shockproof.