Airbag control unit with part number 98221AN200

What does the airbag control unit 98221AN200 do?

The 98221AN200 is the central control unit of the SRS for Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors and decides in a crash which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered. It shows faults via the airbag warning light.

The control unit constantly monitors whether the sensors, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are properly connected and working.

After a crash, the unit stores crash data and locks itself. The lock is lifted only by a repair.

Why does the control unit 98221AN200 fail?

The most common cause is stored crash data, even if no airbag was triggered in the accident. This data cannot be erased with a normal diagnostic tool. Other causes include aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Crash data remains in the unit after the accident, even if the vehicle continues to drive.

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

The list gives general causes that may come into question when a failure occurs.

How can you tell that the 98221AN200 is defective?

A defect shows itself through the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which comes on permanently or intermittently, and through a fault message. The diagnostic tool then finds no connection to the control unit, or the fault memory cannot be cleared. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

Typical signs at a glance:

• airbag warning light, permanently or intermittently
• fault message in the instrument cluster
• no connection between the diagnostic tool and the control unit
• fault memory cannot be cleared

One of these signs is enough to have the system checked.

Which vehicles is the 98221AN200 fitted in?

Comparing the list shows whether your vehicle matches. The 98221AN200 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Outback BS (2015-2018) and BS Facelift (2018-2021).

The known vehicles for this part number:

• Subaru Outback BS (2015-2018)
• Subaru Outback BS Facelift (2018-2021)

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 beforehand, because only this result shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98221AG28A, 98221AJ16B, 98221AN00A, 98221AN00E, 98221AN01A, 98221AN01D.

How does the repair of the 98221AN200 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit only afterwards. Next, create the repair order online and send the unit in well packed. Airbag24 checks and repairs it, erases the crash data and tests the unit.

At Airbag24, the unit undergoes examination on the test bench, during which defective components are replaced. Processing usually takes 3–4 working days, after which your 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 98221AN200 get to Airbag24?

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

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