Airbag control unit with part number 98221FJ470

What does the airbag control unit 98221FJ470 do?

The 98221FJ470 is the airbag control unit for the restraint system (SRS) of Subaru. It processes the signals of the crash sensors and, in an accident, triggers the appropriate airbags and seatbelt pretensioners within milliseconds.

It monitors the entire system continuously. It reports faults it finds via the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster.

After an accident it stores crash data and locks itself.

Why does the control unit 98221FJ470 fail?

The most common cause is stored crash data after an accident, even if no airbag has deployed; an ordinary diagnostic tool cannot erase it. In addition come aged electronic components, cold solder joints, moisture and corrosion at plug connectors, as well as voltage spikes, for example from a weak battery or a jump start.

The crash data therefore sits in the unit, even though nothing may be visible on the airbags. Airbag24 erases it during the repair.

The other causes concern electronics and connections. A cold solder joint or a damp plug can lead to faults just as an unstable power supply can.

How can you tell that the 98221FJ470 is defective?

Signs are an airbag warning light that stays on permanently or intermittently, an error message in the instrument cluster, a diagnostic tool without connection to the control unit, and a fault memory that cannot be cleared. Then airbags and seatbelt pretensioners may possibly fail to trigger in an emergency.

The following points should be watched in detail:

• Airbag warning light in the instrument cluster
• Error message in the instrument cluster
• Missing connection to the diagnostic tool
• Fault memory cannot be cleared

The light indicates the fault, so it is worth not waiting.

Which vehicles is the 98221FJ470 fitted in?

The 98221FJ470 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 overview lists the vehicles that are stored for this part number.

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

First compare the part number on the label of the removed unit with this page. That makes sure you have the right unit; the comparison says nothing more. Also have the fault memory read out; only its 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 98221FJ470 work?

First have the fault memory read out and enclose the log. Then disconnect the battery, only then remove the 98221FJ470, and create the repair order online. Pack the unit well and send it. Airbag24 needs 3–4 working days for checking, repairing and testing as a rule.

At Airbag24 the unit is examined on the test bench, defective components are replaced, the stored crash data is erased and a function test is carried out. Afterwards your own, repaired unit goes back to you.

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 98221FJ470 get to Airbag24?

You can send the control unit 98221FJ470 yourself as a parcel or book a UPS collection for an extra charge. After the repair it returns to you by UPS.

The printed repair order goes into the parcel. Pack the unit shock-resistant.