Airbag control unit with part number 98221AN060

What does the airbag control unit 98221AN060 do?

The airbag control unit 98221AN060 controls the restraint system (SRS) for Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the sensors, determines in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners trigger, and checks the system continuously for faults.

It stores faults it finds in the fault memory and shows them via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. The check runs in the background while you are on the road.

After an accident the control unit secures crash data and locks itself afterwards.

Why does the control unit 98221AN060 fail?

Most common cause is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has triggered; a normal diagnostic tool cannot delete it. Other causes are ageing electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery.

Crash data arises because the control unit records the moment of an impact. Airbag24 deletes it as part of the repair, something a diagnostic tool cannot do.

The other causes concern the electronics themselves. Components age, solder joints can have stayed cold, and moisture attacks the contacts. Voltage spikes from the vehicle electrical system can also load the components and impair their function.

How can you tell that the 98221AN060 is defective?

A defect shows itself when the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently and an error message appears in the instrument cluster. In addition, the diagnostic tool cannot reach the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared.

These signs mean that airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not trigger in an emergency. The warning light reports the finding immediately, so it is worth not ignoring such a display.

A diagnostic tool that cannot establish a connection also indicates a fault in the system and belongs in a check without delay.

Which vehicles is the 98221AN060 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 98221AN060 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Forester SK (2018-2021) and SK Facelift (from 2021).

You will find the allocation to this part number in this overview:

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

First compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page, so that you can be sure you have the correct unit in front of you. Then have the fault memory read out, because the log shows whether the control unit itself is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

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

How does the repair of the 98221AN060 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log, then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. Afterwards create a repair order online and send the unit in well packed. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

Airbag24 examines the unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, deletes the stored crash data and carries out a function test. After that your own unit comes back to you.

The 3–4 working days refer only to checking, repairing and testing at Airbag24. 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 98221AN060 get to Airbag24?

You send the unit in as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair Airbag24 sends it back by UPS.

The printed repair order goes into the parcel. Pack the control unit shock-resistant before you hand it over.