Airbag control unit with part number 98221FE000

What does the airbag control unit 98221FE000 do?

For Subaru, the airbag control unit 98221FE000 works as the control unit of the restraint system (SRS). Using the crash sensors, it determines in an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered. If it detects a fault, it displays it via the airbag warning light.

This evaluation runs continuously, because the decision has only a short time. The connections to sensors and seatbelt pretensioners are also monitored.

After an accident, the unit stores crash data and locks itself. The following sections explain causes, recognition and the process.

Why does the control unit 98221FE000 fail?

Most often it is crash data from an accident that remains in the unit even without airbag deployment. A normal diagnostic tool cannot delete this data. In addition, there are ageing components, cold solder joints, moisture or corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

Airbag24 deletes the crash data during the repair, so you do not need to take care of it yourself.

In everyday use, ageing components also play a role, as do solder joints that may be cold. Moisture and corrosion attack plug connections.

Voltage spikes additionally stress the electronics, for example with a weak battery or when jump-starting. Only the test shows which cause is present.

How can you tell that the 98221FE000 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently when a fault is present. A fault message may also appear alongside it, and the diagnostic tool finds no connection to the control unit. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to deploy.

A fault memory that cannot be cleared is a further sign of the fault.

Have the finding read promptly rather than ignoring the light.

Which vehicles is the 98221FE000 fitted in?

The part number 98221FE000 applies to the make Subaru. The control unit is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Impreza GD Saloon (2000-2007) and GG Estate (2000-2007).

The list of vehicles follows here.

• Subaru Impreza GD Saloon (2000-2007)
• Subaru Impreza GG Estate (2000-2007)

Comparing the part number with the label ensures that you have the right unit. Whether the control unit itself is defective, or a plug or cable is the cause, is answered only by the fault memory, which you should have read beforehand.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 152300-3961, 152300-6130, 152300-8400, 98221FE020, 98221FE030, 98221FE080.

How does the repair of the 98221FE000 work?

First have the fault memory read and the log enclosed. Then disconnect the battery and remove the control unit. At Airbag24, processing usually takes 3–4 working days.

Afterwards, you create a repair order online and send in the unit. Airbag24 tests it on the test bench, repairs defective components, deletes the stored crash data and carries out a function test.

The sequence on the vehicle is binding: read first, then disconnect, then remove.

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 98221FE000 get to Airbag24?

The unit goes to Airbag24 as a parcel, or you book a UPS collection. The return after the repair is made by UPS.

Enclose the printed repair order and pack the control unit shock-proof.