Airbag control unit with part number 98221AN25A

What does the airbag control unit 98221AN25A do?

The airbag control unit 98221AN25A controls the restraint system (SRS) for Subaru. From the signals of the crash sensors it calculates within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered in an accident.

During operation the control unit monitors all connected components. If it detects a fault, it reports this via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

After an accident the unit stores crash data and locks itself. The lock ends only with the repair.

Why does the control unit 98221AN25A fail?

The most common cause is stored crash data, even without a triggered airbag, which a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase. Further triggers come on top with the 98221AN25A and can be summarised briefly.

The other causes at a glance:

• ageing of electronic components
• cold solder joints
• moisture and corrosion at plug connections
• voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start

Airbag24 erases the crash data during the repair, so you do not have to carry out this step yourself.

How can you tell that the 98221AN25A is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently, and an error message also appears in the instrument cluster. Even if the diagnostic tool cannot establish a connection to the 98221AN25A, the fault is already visible.

A fault memory that cannot be cleared also belongs to these signs. If you notice one of them, have the system checked.

In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not trigger. Therefore have the condition examined promptly.

Which vehicles is the 98221AN25A fitted in?

The airbag control unit 98221AN25A is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Outback BS (2015-2018) and BS Facelift (2018-2021). The basis for the comparison is the part number on the label of the removed unit.

The assignment of this part number to vehicles is shown below:

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

Comparing the label only tells you that it is the right unit, and it is not a cause analysis. Have the fault memory read out before removal, because only the log shows whether the control unit is defective or whether a connector or cable is affected.

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 98221AN25A work?

First the fault memory is read out, with the log enclosed. Then you disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit 98221AN25A. Airbag24 needs 3–4 working days in general for testing, repair and functional test.

Create the repair order online, then send the well-packed unit in.

Airbag24 examines the unit on the test bench, renews defective components, erases the stored crash data and carries out a functional test. The own unit then goes 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 98221AN25A get to Airbag24?

The 98221AN25A reaches Airbag24 as a parcel from you or via a UPS collection booked for an extra charge. After the repair Airbag24 sends it back by UPS.

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