Airbag control unit with part number 98221AL26A

What does the airbag control unit 98221AL26A do?

The airbag control unit 98221AL26A is the evaluation unit of the SRS for Subaru. It processes the crash sensor data, triggers the appropriate airbags and seatbelt pretensioners in an accident, and monitors the condition of the system continuously. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

The evaluation takes milliseconds and runs without any action from you. The unit reports a fault via the airbag warning light.

As long as everything works, it remains inconspicuous.

Why does the control unit 98221AL26A fail?

Main cause: crash data from an accident that stays in memory, even if nothing was triggered. It cannot be erased with a normal diagnostic tool. Other causes lie in ageing, corrosion and voltage spikes.

Crash data remains stored in the control unit until it is erased.

The other causes include:

• aged electronic components
• cold solder joints
• moisture and corrosion at plug connections
• voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or jump-starting

These causes can occur singly or together.

How can you tell that the 98221AL26A is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently, or a fault message appears in the instrument cluster. The diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be erased. With these signs there is a risk that airbags and seatbelt pretensioners will not trigger in an emergency.

The light is the first sign you can recognise.

If you notice any of these irregularities, have the system checked promptly.

Which vehicles is the 98221AL26A fitted in?

The control unit 98221AL26A is fitted in these vehicles: 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 for this part number at a glance:

• 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 of the removed unit with this page ensures that it is the correct unit. Whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause is shown only by a fault memory 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 98221AL26A work?

Above all else, have the fault memory read out and attach the log to the unit; then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. The repair order is created online before you send in the unit. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

The sequence is prescribed for safe removal.

Airbag24 tests the unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, erases stored crash data and carries out a function test. Your unit is then returned 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 98221AL26A get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. UPS handles the return journey to you on behalf of Airbag24.

Pack the repair order into the parcel and insert the control unit so that it is shock-resistant.