Airbag control unit with part number 98221FC100

What does the airbag control unit 98221FC100 do?

In the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru, the control unit 98221FC100 processes the readings from the crash sensors. In an accident it decides which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, within milliseconds. After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

In everyday use the unit works unnoticed and monitors the system continuously. If it detects a fault, it shows this via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

A unit of this kind is responsible for the entire safety function, so any failure affects the protective effect.

Why does the control unit 98221FC100 fail?

Crash data from an accident is the most common cause, even if no airbag was triggered; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Other causes include aged components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion on connectors, and voltage spikes.

Stored crash data is the log of the accident. It is created regardless of whether an airbag triggers, and it remains in the control unit afterwards.

The other causes involve ageing and environmental influences. Solder joints can break, contacts can corrode, and voltage spikes when starting with jump leads put a strain on the electronics.

How can you tell that the 98221FC100 is defective?

A defect shows when the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up, an error message appears or the diagnostic tool cannot reach the control unit. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to trigger.

The signs in detail:

• The airbag warning light stays on or lights up intermittently.
• An error message in the instrument cluster
• No connection between diagnostic tool and control unit
• A fault memory that cannot be erased

These are warning signs you should respond to promptly.

Which vehicles is the 98221FC100 fitted in?

The control unit 98221FC100 was installed in these vehicles: Subaru Forester SF (1997-2001) and SF Facelift (2001-2002).

The vehicles are listed individually below.

• Subaru Forester SF (1997-2001)
• Subaru Forester SF Facelift (2001-2002)

You should compare the part number on the label with this page. Such a comparison only confirms that the unit is the correct one. Whether the control unit is defective, or whether connectors and cables are the cause, is shown by the fault memory read out beforehand.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98221FC200.

How does the repair of the 98221FC100 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. Next create the repair order online and send the well-packed unit off.

Airbag24 tests the unit on the test bench, replaces defective components, deletes stored crash data and carries out a function test. Processing usually takes 3–4 working days.

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 98221FC100 get to Airbag24?

You either send the unit as a package, or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. Airbag24 returns the unit by UPS after the repair.

Put the printed repair order in the package; the unit should be packed in shock-resistant packaging.