Airbag control unit with part number 98221CA110

What does the airbag control unit 98221CA110 do?

As a central unit, the airbag control unit 98221CA110 controls the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru. It checks the signals from the crash sensors, decides in an accident on airbags and seatbelt pretensioners, and monitors the system continuously. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

The unit stores detected faults in the fault memory and reports them via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

The occupants rely on this control in an emergency, because triggering must happen without delay.

Why does the control unit 98221CA110 fail?

The most common cause with the 98221CA110 is crash data stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed. Beyond that, several ageing and environmental causes come into question.

Crash data cannot be deleted with a normal diagnostic tool. It therefore remains in the unit until a repair removes it.

The other causes at a glance:

• ageing damage to electronic components
• poorly connected solder joints
• wetness and corrosion on plugs
• voltage spikes, for example with a weak battery or a jump start

How can you tell that the 98221CA110 is defective?

A defect in the 98221CA110 shows up as warnings on the dashboard and as faults during diagnosis. Then airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not deploy in an emergency.

Typical signs are:

• Airbag warning light lights up permanently
• Airbag warning light lights up intermittently
• Fault message in the instrument cluster
• Diagnostic tool cannot reach the control unit
• Fault memory cannot be cleared

A check brings clarity for each of these signs. Do not leave the finding unattended.

Which vehicles is the 98221CA110 fitted in?

The vehicle list shows which models the part number matches. The control unit 98221CA110 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru BRZ ZC6 (2012-2016) and ZC6 Facelift (2017-2020).

The vehicles are listed individually here:

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

Compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. This only confirms the right unit. Only the fault memory, read out beforehand, 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 98221CA110 work?

For the 98221CA110, first read out the fault memory and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery and only then remove the control unit. Next create the repair order online and send the well-packed unit. At Airbag24, checking, repair and test usually require 3–4 working days.

On the test bench Airbag24 examines the unit, replaces defective components, deletes the crash data and carries out a functional test. Your own unit is then 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 98221CA110 get to Airbag24?

A parcel or a UPS collection for an extra charge brings the 98221CA110 to Airbag24. UPS handles the return.

Print the repair order and put it into the parcel. Pack the unit so that it is shock-resistant before it is dispatched.