Airbag control unit with part number 98221FJ050

What does the airbag control unit 98221FJ050 do?

The airbag control unit 98221FJ050 is the central control unit of the SRS restraint system for Subaru. It evaluates the crash sensors, decides in milliseconds in the event of an accident which airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are triggered, and monitors the system continuously.

The device reports any faults it finds via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster. The monitoring takes place without interruption.

After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself. Only the repair lifts the lock.

Why does the control unit 98221FJ050 fail?

The most common cause is crash data from an accident, even without a triggered airbag, which a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase. Other causes are aged electronics, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion, and voltage spikes.

• aged electronic components
• cold solder joints
• moisture and corrosion at plug connections
• voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start

The crash data remains stored in the device until Airbag24 removes it during the repair. Which cause applies to your device is only established by a diagnosis.

How can you tell that the 98221FJ050 is defective?

The airbag warning light on the 98221FJ050 comes on permanently or intermittently, a fault message appears in the instrument cluster, and the diagnostic tool has no connection to the control unit. In addition, the fault memory cannot be cleared.

The warning light in the instrument cluster is the clearest sign the vehicle gives you. It can stay on constantly or light up only now and then, and in both cases there is a fault.

If there is a defect, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may not deploy in an emergency. A warning that lights up therefore calls for a check without delay.

Which vehicles is the 98221FJ050 fitted in?

The airbag control unit 98221FJ050 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru XV GP (2011-2016) and GP Facelift (2016-2018); Subaru Impreza GJ (2011-2018) and GP (2011-2018).

The following overview shows the vehicles for which we have this part number on record.

• Subaru XV GP (2011-2016)
• Subaru XV GP Facelift (2016-2018)
• Subaru Impreza GJ (2011-2018)
• Subaru Impreza GP (2011-2018)

Compare the part number on the label of the removed device with this page. That only ensures that you have the right device in front of you. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, 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 150300-9400, 152300-6130, 1523003971, 98221FE020, 98221FE100, 98221FJ030.

How does the repair of the 98221FJ050 work?

First have the fault memory read out and attach the log. Then disconnect the battery, remove the control unit 98221FJ050 and create a repair order online. Pack the device well and send it in.

Airbag24 checks the device on the test bench, replaces defective components, erases the stored crash data and carries out a function test. Your own device is then returned to you.

Processing at Airbag24 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 98221FJ050 get to Airbag24?

You send the device as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair Airbag24 returns it by UPS.

Put the printed repair order into the parcel and pack the device shockproof, so that it arrives undamaged.