Airbag control unit with part number 98221FJ290

What does the airbag control unit 98221FJ290 do?

The airbag control unit 98221FJ290 coordinates the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru. It processes the measured values of the crash sensors, selects the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners to be triggered in an accident within milliseconds, and monitors the entire system continuously.

While driving it checks sensors, wiring and trigger circuits. If it detects a fault, it stores it in the fault memory and displays it.

After an accident the unit stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 98221FJ290 fail?

The most common cause is a crash data record stored after an accident, even if no airbag was triggered; a normal diagnostic tool cannot erase it. Added to this are aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connections, and voltage spikes.

The crash data remains stored in the unit after the accident until Airbag24 erases it during the repair.

Aged electronics and corrosion develop over years when moisture and temperature changes act on them. Cold solder joints also show up over time. A weak battery or a jump start can cause voltage spikes that stress the electronics.

How can you tell that the 98221FJ290 is defective?

The airbag warning light in the instrument cluster lights up permanently or intermittently, and a fault message appears in the instrument cluster. The diagnostic tool gets no connection to the control unit, and the fault memory cannot be cleared. In an emergency, airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may then fail to trigger.

If the warning light is on, it shows that a fault has been detected in the system. The fault memory then shows where the fault lies.

A connection problem during read-out also justifies checking the lines and plugs before a unit is removed.

Which vehicles is the 98221FJ290 fitted in?

The control unit 98221FJ290 is fitted in these vehicles: Subaru Impreza GP (2011-2018) and GJ (2011-2018).

The vehicles are listed individually here:

• Subaru Impreza GP (2011-2018)
• Subaru Impreza GJ (2011-2018)

Compare the part number on the label of the unit with this page, then you know that it is the right unit. Have the fault memory read out beforehand, because only this shows whether the control unit itself is defective or whether a plug or cable is the cause.

For the same vehicles, we also repair control units with the part numbers 98221-FJ000, 98221-FJ010, 98221FJ020, 98221FJ030, 98221FJ050, 98221FJ140.

How does the repair of the 98221FJ290 work?

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

Airbag24 checks the unit on the test bench, repairs defective components, erases stored crash data and carries out a function test. The processing takes 3–4 working days as a rule. Then your own unit goes back.

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 98221FJ290 get to Airbag24?

You send the control unit as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair, Airbag24 sends the repaired unit back by UPS.

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