Airbag control unit with part number 98221CA060

What does the airbag control unit 98221CA060 do?

The airbag control unit 98221CA060 is the central control unit of the restraint system (SRS) for Subaru. It evaluates the signals from the crash sensors, decides in an accident within milliseconds which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

The unit detects faults in the system continuously and shows them in the instrument cluster. This includes the airbag warning light, which alerts the driver to a fault in the restraint system.

The evaluation runs according to fixed procedures that always stay the same, regardless of how the vehicle is driven.

Why does the control unit 98221CA060 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, for example from a weak battery or a jump start.

The crash data remains in the unit's memory until it is erased. These entries usually prevent a diagnostic tool from fully releasing the system, and therefore require processing.

Aged electronic components, cold solder joints and corrosion at plug connections develop over a longer period. Moisture intensifies this development, because it causes damage to the contacts.

Voltage spikes act on the electronics, for example when starting with a weak battery or with a jump start.

How can you tell that the 98221CA060 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently, a fault message appears in the instrument cluster, the diagnostic tool gets no connection to the control unit, or the fault memory cannot be cleared. Then airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may fail to deploy in an emergency.

The warning light in the instrument cluster is the clearest sign of a defect, and it stays visible until the check. If the light appears only intermittently, the same applies as for permanent lighting.

A diagnostic tool shows whether the control unit can be reached and which entries are in the fault memory. Make sure these details are established during the check.

Which vehicles is the 98221CA060 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 98221CA060 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru BRZ ZC6 (2012-2016) and ZC6 Facelift (2017-2020).

The list shows the vehicles recorded for this part number.

• Subaru BRZ ZC6 (2012-2016)
• Subaru BRZ ZC6 Facelift (2017-2020)

Before removal, compare the part number on the label of the unit with this page; this only ensures that it is the right unit. Also have the fault memory read out, 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 98221CA090, 98221CA210.

How does the repair of the 98221CA060 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log, then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit 98221CA060. Next create a repair order online and send the unit in well packed. Processing at Airbag24 usually takes 3–4 working days.

The sequence protects you during work on the vehicle, which is why it is binding. First comes the readout, then the disconnection, then the removal.

At Airbag24 the team checks the unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, deletes stored crash data and carries out a function test. Afterwards your own unit 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 98221CA060 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit 98221CA060 as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair Airbag24 sends it back by UPS.

Enclose the printed repair order with the parcel and pack the control unit shock-resistant so it arrives in good condition.