Airbag control unit with part number 98221AN020

What does the airbag control unit 98221AN020 do?

The control unit 98221AN020 is the central airbag control unit of the restraint system in the Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, triggers the appropriate airbags and seatbelt pretensioners within milliseconds in an accident, and monitors the system continuously.

It shows faults via the airbag warning light. After an accident, the unit stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 98221AN020 fail?

The most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other causes are aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Crash data is therefore created even when no airbag has fired. The unit records what it registers, and these entries are exactly what gets in the way of a normal diagnosis.

Aged components and cold solder joints create intermittent contacts. Moisture and corrosion attack plugs and change their electrical transition.

Voltage spikes arise, for example, with a weak battery or when starting with an external power source, and can overload the electronics.

How can you tell that the 98221AN020 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up constantly or intermittently, an error message appears, the diagnostic tool cannot find the control unit, or the fault memory persists. In a critical situation, the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not be able to deploy.

These signs are followed first by a look into the fault memory, because it gives clues to the origin of the message.

The warning light is one of the indicators that the system itself provides for faults, and it must not be overlooked.

Which vehicles is the 98221AN020 fitted in?

The control unit 98221AN020 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Forester SK (2018-2021) and SK Facelift (from 2021).

The models for which this part number is on record are listed here:

• Subaru Forester SK (2018-2021)
• Subaru Forester SK Facelift (from 2021)

Check the part number on the label of the unit against this page, so you can confirm that you have the correct unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand. Only that result shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a connector or a cable is responsible.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 1523004370, 98221FC210, 98221SJ000, 98221SJ001.

How does the repair of the 98221AN020 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery, remove the control unit and create a repair order online; send the well-packed unit in. Airbag24 checks, repairs and tests it usually within 3–4 working days.

The removal only takes place once the battery has been disconnected. This is prescribed for safety reasons.

At Airbag24 the unit is examined on the test bench, defective components are replaced and crash data is erased. A function test follows, and then your own unit is 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 98221AN020 get to Airbag24?

The control unit 98221AN020 reaches Airbag24 as a parcel or by a UPS collection for an extra charge. The return after the repair is made by UPS.

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