Airbag control unit with part number 98221CC081

What does the airbag control unit 98221CC081 do?

For Subaru, the airbag control unit 98221CC081 controls the SRS, i.e. the restraint system. From the values of the crash sensors it calculates, in the event of an impact, which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners fire, and it does so within milliseconds. The system is monitored continuously; faults are shown via the airbag warning light.

After an accident the unit stores crash data and then blocks itself. In everyday use it works unobtrusively but checks the connected components continuously.

Why does the control unit 98221CC081 fail?

Most often the cause lies in crash data that were stored after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed. A standard diagnostic tool cannot remove this data. Added to this are aged components, cold solder joints, moisture on plug connections and voltage spikes.

The crash data stay in memory even when nothing can be seen from outside. Airbag24 erases them during the repair.

Further causes are:

• Aged electronic components
• Cold solder joints
• Moisture and corrosion at plug connections
• Voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start

How can you tell that the 98221CC081 is defective?

A defect shows itself through the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster, which lights up permanently or intermittently. Added to this are an error message in the instrument cluster, a missing connection of the diagnostic tool and a fault memory that cannot be cleared.

If you notice any of these signs, have the fault checked. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then not deploy.

• Airbag warning light on permanently or intermittently
• Error message in the instrument cluster
• Diagnostic tool without connection to the control unit
• Fault memory that cannot be cleared

Which vehicles is the 98221CC081 fitted in?

The control unit 98221CC081 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru BRZ ZD8 (from 2021). Before removal, please check whether your car is listed here.

The corresponding vehicle details are listed here:

• Subaru BRZ ZD8 (from 2021)

Comparing the label on the removed unit with this page helps you make sure you have the correct unit in front of you. Also have the fault memory read out, because only this result shows whether the control unit is defective or a plug or a cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98221CC001, 98221CC120.

How does the repair of the 98221CC081 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit; only after that do you create a repair order online. Pack the unit well and send it in. Airbag24 tests it on the test bench, repairs the defective components, erases the crash data and tests the function; processing usually takes 3–4 working days.

Keep to this order, as the removal comes last. You carry out the removal yourself.

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 98221CC081 get to Airbag24?

You either send the unit as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. The return after the repair is made by UPS.

Put the printed repair order into the parcel, and pack the unit shockproof.